siLLy puPPy NO TRUST is a thrash / sludge / death metal hybrid band that was founded in 2010 by brothers Ben Guzman (guitars / vocals) and Zach Guzman (drums) in Fremont, CA near San Jose. Existing as only a duo, the brothers succeed in creating a much larger band sound despite not using a bass on any of their recordings.

Drawn to check out the music by their intriguing artwork, the debut UNFOUND was released in 2013 with a massive sludgy metal sound that takes some thrash riffing, a touch of death growls and shouts alongside a filthy distortion that runs the gamut of harsh tones and brutal ear splitting decibalage.

Despite the lack of bass, the guitar seems to cover the entire spectrum of treble and bass sounds but the music is rooted on a deeper bass range along with a rather typical style of sludge metal drumming that rarely gets too energetic. The duo creates nice grooves which they build upon and delivery an interesting mix of melodic ranges on the ten tracks that take the listener on 48 minute run.

While this album doesn’t blow me away, i’m surprised how good it is although after 40 minutes or so the tracks start sounding the same and it could’ve been trimmed down a bit. While there are supplemental elements from classic 80s metal, death metal an even a black metal vibe at times, the overall sound is firmly rooted in a filthy grungy sludge style of riffing.

It’s hard to believe that two guys can get such a large sound out of two instruments but somehow that’s exactly what they achieved. Maybe the guitars are layered or something? I don’t know but something works. While i wouldn’t call NO TRUST the next big thing or one of the best bands to look out for, these brothers do crank out some pleasant filthy sludge metal that is a pleasure to soak in for its run.