Graveripper's Evolution: From Welkin to Tundra
Since their formation in 2019, Graveripper has been making waves in the Indianapolis music scene with their unique blend of blackened thrash. Their 2023 debut album, 'Seasons Dreaming Death', received positive reviews, showcasing their potential. Now, with a new lineup, they're back with their sophomore effort, 'From Welkin to Tundra'.
The album's cover art, designed by Adam Burke, sets the tone with its bleak and dark imagery. The instrumental intro, 'Welkin, Now Tundra', further emphasizes this shift towards the blacker side of metal. Despite this, Graveripper still delivers on their thrash roots, with guitarist and vocalist Corey Parks showcasing his skill through fast riffs and aggressive vocals.
The new lineup, including bassist Steve Garcia and drummer Nick James, brings a fresh dynamic to the band. While the Midwest metal scene still has its comparators, Graveripper has successfully merged their thrash and black metal elements, creating a more cohesive and balanced sound.
The album's highlights include 'Bring Upon Pain' and 'Hexenhammer', which showcase the band's ability to keep things simple yet effective. The former's rapid-fire riffing and old-school Kreator vibe, combined with the latter's blackened tremolos and vicious vocals, create a solid foundation. However, it's the Megadethic melodicism of 'Bullet Laden Crown' and the blistering 'Burning Barren Plains' that truly elevate the album.
Despite the improvements, there are a few areas where the album could have been enhanced. The pacing of the songs from 'Death's Cold Embrace' to 'Hounds of Hell' could have been better, and there's a desire for more shredding solos, which Parks excels at. These elements, if fully incorporated, could take Graveripper to the next level.
'From Welkin to Tundra' is a step in the right direction for the band, and their continued evolution is exciting. With a solid Hoosier metal scene, bands like Graveripper, Wraith, and Wolftooth are making their mark. The album is available worldwide on October 17th, 2025, through Wise Blood Records.
Score: 3.0/5.0
DR: 6 | Format Reviewed: 320kbps mp3
Label: Wise Blood Records (https://wisebloodrecords.com/)
Websites: Bandcamp (https://graveripper.bandcamp.com/album/from-welkin-to-tundra) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/graveripperofficial/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/grave.ripper.metal/?hl=en)
