While the majority of Christian metal fans are focusing their attention on recent releases from artists like Once Nothing, MyChildren MyBride and Oh, Sleeper, there lies another dimension where few dare to travel. Okay, maybe that's a bit dramatic, but the underground keeps producing albums from bands not many have heard of. Bands like Ultimatum, a speed/thrash metal band, who have just released their newest album, Into The Pit.

The album opens pretty strong, musically, with "One For All." The musicians in Ultimatum are very skilled at their respective instruments. When the vocals come in, however, you understand just why this is more of an underground product. They're definitely an acquired taste. For a good portion of the album, the lyrics are either growled or barked out, while other times, Scott Waters' voice almost resembles that of James Hetfield of Metallica fame. Metallica-esque music is also found throughout the album as well, at times seeming to also resemble something you would hear on a Pantera record.

Unfortunately for Ultimatum, speed and thrash is a sound that doesn't see much of the light of day. It's usually held back by its gritty sound and low-budget production. On the other hand, the underground metal scene is full of hardcore devoted fans, which is really what the underground bands are mostly looking for. While the overall quality of the album isn't stunning, it's not too bad, and it's very noticeable that their hearts are in it.

- Review date: 3/7/08, written by Scott Fryberger