PA-bred metalcore standard-bearers August Burns Red might not have bothered with vocals for their rendition of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” but they’ve more than compensated by instituting every trick in their toolbag. From ripping double-time blastbeats to slick dual-guitar solos to shimmery atmospherics to a chug-a-chug breakdown, the tidings are joyful, but this searing take on the Christmas standard could only comfort the blackest of hearts. Turn up the volume – there’s no way these gentlemen are getting any rest tonight. Easily the best holiday tune to come from Manheim since the Steamroller’s heyday. (What? Different Mannheim? No matter.)

★★★.5/★★★★★

*This review was composed by Jesse Richman