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Ahkmed take a Kraut/Space-rock approach to the “post-metal” sound we all know and love with Chicxulub, a collection of EPs recorded in 2003 and 2005. Imagine Hawkwind, in their cosmic, amphetamine-driven prime, joining forces with Isis, and you have a nearly dead-on description of their sound.

The opening track “Kirrae,” wonderfully explores the dynamics of loud and soft that post-rock and its derivatives are known for. The track goes from clean guitar jamming that seems high in the sky, then kicks in the distortion. Ahkmed then go back to the softness, but when the amps are cranked again, they outdo themselves. The songs drifts off into spacey ambiance a pedal geek is sure to love.  The band cuts some of the drone and ups the dexterity on the next track, “Ilanesia.” Though space-rock is mostly associated with bliss, it can convey fear as well. The muted wah in “T” creates an ominous claustrophobia. It’s also in this track where the vocals, a wispy drawl, are introduced. They are not in the forefront, like in Isis, and overall serve to add to the atmosphere of the album.

Ahkmed’s songwriting is also more diverse than their classification would make them out to be. “Viceroy” sees the band successfully taking on a Fudge Tunnel-like tune, the most conventionally metal (though not by much) of the tracks. “Welcome Mat” finds them indulging in some Acid Mothers Temple spazz-outs. The fresh interpretation of a sound that some would already considered played-out makes Chicxulub worth it for any fan of heavy music.

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Reviewer: Andy O'Connor Added: January 16th 2008