So, you're probably wondering, is all the hype worth it? Are they just a flash in the pan? Is the potential-culture-making machine known as MySpace any place to find a metal band let alone sign one that is possibly good? Add to this question, could anything that has become so popular on a social networking site still retain an audience that tends to be fickle at a whiff of "selling-out" and critical of poseurs?

I say, get over it. These questions are for the pop culture enthusiasts to mull over and debate. It would be unfair to suggest that any (or all) products that are associated or affiliated with MySpace are suspect and not worthy of attention by purists.

"Genesis" is a devastating release. It is an opening salvo across the bows of established metal bands. It is, by my ears and opinion, an uncompromising force to be reckoned with never mind the source of its popularity. Who cares how many friends they have? I say, this means more ears are being exposed to death metal. Death Metal will never be popular but perhaps this will inspire others to follow suit and give us an even edgier release.

So, what is the hype about? Job For A Cowboy sound like Morbid Angel meets Broken Hope and a jam session takes place. The blast beats are of the same intensity as the Morbid ones, with the speed and deadly accuracy that drive the Cowboy death machine. The vocals are similar to the dude from Broken Hope's deeper tones with occasional screechiness to add variety.

If there ever was a band that was meant to be on Metal Blade, it was Job For A Cowboy. There sound has much in common with many of the past greats that have spent time with Metal Blade. “Genesis” is an album that is well studied in the Art that is Death Metal. It has the thick, meaty guitar riffage alternating with the saw blading razor sharp riffs. The pace of many songs is just right - not too fast to be incomprehensible or discordant and not too slow to leave the listener bored to tears. The production is also quite crisp and clear, the forcefulness of the music is viscerally felt. In general, Job For A Cowboy do not play like a band that is trying to be popular with the masses.

The only criticism I have is also the band's obvious strength: this is Death Metal. The variety is limited. Job For A Cowboy have a definite sound that fits well with the Metal Blade roster, yet I can't help but wonder if they are holding back, giving us what we want to hear. The irony is not lost on me. A debut album that is exactly what it intends to be, a fine death metal release but it is this very quality that may make or break the Cowboys. I guess we will just have to see, won't we?