Treading the line between death and thrash (with a little GWAR-esque fun thrown in), Ghoul growls, pounds, and shreds like the four horsemen of the apocalypse. Starting with a brief sample, "Ghetto Blasters" stomps its way into your ears like they're possessed by Sgt. D himself. The stomp soon turns pulverizing, though, with the blistering "Bringer of War." Propulsive and pummeling drums join forces with menacing riffs and terrorizing buzzsaws. Vocal styles are mixed between rough growls and clear shouts to a maximum effect. Along side speedfests like "Bringer of War," "Dungeon Bastards," and "Death Campaign" are head nodding, fist pumping, pit invitations like "Shred the Dead," "Ghoulunatics," and "Blood and Guts." Ghoul's ability to write catchy songs over vary styles of death and thrash is matched by their stellar musicianship, and we all get to reap the benefits. Whether chugging along with headbanging aplomb or deftly testing the integrity of their instruments with speed and brutality, Ghoul unleashes ten tracks of heavy metal fury that will reinvigorate even the most jaded fan.

Dungeon Bastards is a most welcome addition to Ghoul's canon. It's refreshing to see talent and fun working so well together, and Ghoul has that combination locked up. Well written, well played, and well recorded, Dungeon Bastards would fit well in any metal fan's collection.