Black Tusk are a sludge/metal /hardcore band from the US and this is their sixth album.
Following on from 2018’s TCBT comes The Way Forward, which gives us 36 minutes of material. With a new lineup comes an expanded sound, with now a second guitarist and an extra vocalist, (which brings the total to an impressive four individuals all contributing vocals).
Black Tusk are always good for a good time. Short songs, riffs that slay, aggressive vocals, catchy hooks, and a thunderous presence, what’s not to like? Not much, that’s for sure.
The punk-charged music is energetic and infectious. The sludge rock swagger and metallic weight are well-used across the songs, and there’s a thrash edge that’s sharp and jagged. Black Tusk bring all of this together into tight, passionate songs that are just damn good fun to listen to.
Effortless, straightforward, and without filler, The Way Forward is a great example of a band producing a record that just rocks, and rocks hard. Black Tusk excel in the execution of strong songs given vibrant life.
I remain a fan of Black Tusk’s simple, yet effective charms.
Highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 