Is it me or are these bands getting younger? Not only that, they are demonstrating an amazing amount of musical skill and songwriting maturity. Whether it be Trivium (despite the decent misstep of The Crusade) or Bushwhack, or whoever else you may want to add, these young acts are turning out some really good music. All of the members of Black Tide clock in under 20 years of age, and there debut release is something to behold. It doesn't hurt that their young careers got a big lift before they even released an album, opening the Ozzfest main stage in 2007. Nope, doesn't hurt one bit, and with the still developing musical prowess displayed on their debut, they must have really wowed the crowds on that tour. Touring aside, we are here to discuss Light From Above.

Prior to receiving a copy of the album, I had not heard a single cut from them. Although I have read much praise regarding their music, spawned from old school influences. I came into my initial listen clean, without any real expectations, I have heard praised bands fall flat on my ears in the past and all I really hoped was that these guys would not let me down. The opening track, "Shockwave," proved any worries or doubt to be groundless. I was instantly hooked by the riffs and the energy.

Energy is a good word to use when discussing Black Tide. This young quartet attacks their music with energy and aggression that is downright infectious and goes a long way in covering up their shortcomings. You can almost see these guys ripping into tunes during a stage show. If you like metal, there is no way you cannot enjoy these guys.

Culling influential reference points from the likes of Metallica, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden, Black Tide charge through 14 tracks of heavy metal. There is nary a drop of metalcore, hardcore, or screamo to be found here. Just when you might be thinking that classic 80's style heavy metal was lost to the sands of time, replaced by the ever growing list of core styles, with only thrash receiving any sort of revival (Warbringer, Municipal Waste), do not be discouraged. Black Tide delivers that classic style with catchy riffs, great melodies, better than average songwriting, speedy solos, driving drums, and all the other elements that helped make metal great back in their early days.