I just picked up some Briess Brewer's Malt. I like to keep some on hand at all times, even when I don't have any immediate plans to use it. Likely will use it in a wet hop APA in the next few weeks anyway. They make it right here in my own county, Manitowoc County. So fresh, it would probably be a sin not to use it at least once in a while. In the old Rahr complex no less! I know people in downtown Manitowoc often complain about the smell of the malting process. To me it smells like money. I tell those people to quit whining, that they should be proud.
I don't find it bland at all. I just chewed on a few kernels. Big crackery and bready flavors, with an almost-burnt toast acridness or astringency. Not at all bland. I'll use it anytime in any American style, and even in other old-world styles where I might want bready flavor.