Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts

4 Jun 2022

Album review: Thecondontion – Supercontinent (2020)

 

Thecondontion – Supercontinent (2020)

Italy

I, Voidhanger Records 


Thecondontion is death metal quartet based in Rome, Italy, and “Supercontinent” is their debut full-length from 2020, released by I, Voidhanger. Having reviewed their excellent split with Vessel of Iniquity recently, I decided to review their debut album as well.

The band refers to their style as “prehistoric death metal,” and I absolutely cannot think of a better way to describe their music. Thecondontion can be distinguished from other bands in the sense that they don't have any guitars, instead relying on two bassists to act as guitars. The bass playing is done exceptionally well and features lots of delay and reverb, giving the music a somewhat psychedelic effect. Aside from that, they have a pretty unique sound with plenty of variation in the songwriting.

The overall production is decidedly raw and lean, emphasizing groove by way of lethal bass riffs, which works like a charm. Imagine if bands like Impetigo, Pungent Stench, and The Jesus Lizard were thrown in a blender. That's basically what we have here, even though their music isn't that easy to categorize. The sound and spirit embodied by the band is death metal through and through, and yet they have managed to create something distinctive in a genre in which it’s difficult to invent something new.

The vocals are emphatically harsh and raspy, reminding me of Mark of the Devil from Cultes Des Ghoules. In terms of musicianship, the band proves its worth by displaying a strong sense of craftsmanship and a knack for artistry. Overall, this isn't your typical death metal band, but if you're looking for something creative and different, then look no further. This is a very enjoyable album. Also, those who enjoy bands like Antediluvian, Karnarium and Demilich should check them out. (HT)

6 May 2022

Album review: Velka - Purgatori Ignis Ludicium (2022)


Velka - Purgatori Ignis Ludicium

Spain

Base Record Production / Necromance Records


Hailing from the Basque Country (sovereign region in Spain), Velka is an autonomous black metal band and “Purgatori Ignis Ludicium” is their debut album released by Base Record Production & Necromance Records.

The band may refer to their music as black metal, and that’s fair enough considering the overt amount of blasphemous riffs and evil feeling that prevails in their music, but the ferocity they exude also brings to mind extreme black/death by way of old Belphegor, or fast-paced black metal like Impaled Nazarene or Handful of Hate. Musically, Velka is its own entity, and they deliver a strong performance full of power, energy and musicianship to rival with the best.

The first track, “Eternal Hate Awakens”, is a nine-minute stomper that opens this album in brutal fashion, with lightning fast drums, muscular riffs, and vocals that alternate between aggressive rasps and menacing growls.

The rhythmic guitars carry the music, while the drums are nifty and add a good deal of variety. The vocals are perfectly balanced in the mix – not too loud, nor too soft. A mixture of morbid melodies and sledgehammer brutality fills the show with high-octane energy and pure raw rage.

Despite its seven tracks, the average track is about 7-8 minutes long, assaulting the listener with a non-stop barrage of hellfire and brimstone, which is similar to Vital Remains when it comes to lengthy compositions, but in Velka's case, they offer enough variety to keep the listener interested, coupled with an energetic performance and unpolished production that add to the enjoyment of this album. The music itself is pretty straight-forward, although honest and free of gimmicks.

The searing intensity of the music is unquestionable, with a heavier than thou attitude sweeping throughout the album. Considering it's Velka's debut album, it's a solid effort. (HT)

23 Dec 2021

Album review: Caveman Cult - Blood and Extinction (2021)

 

Caveman Cult - Blood and Extinction

USA

Nuclear War Now!


Chaos reigns supreme on Caveman Cult's latest full-length, entitled "Blood and Extinction", released via Nuclear War Now!


On the band's latest album, we are presented with nine tracks of decidedly violent, bestial black/death informed by bands such as Bestial Warlust, Conqueror and Blasphemy, while also blending hardcore punk elements into their sound.

These cavemen manage to achieve a really abrasive sound, as they belch out a torrent of profoundly savage riffs, eminently harsh vocals, as well as chaotic and cavernous drumming that never lets up – all this combined will leave you with bleeding ears, including their penchant for fast and ripping solos, showing their adoration for this style.

The sound of Caveman Cult can easily be distinguished from other bands in this genre due to their rhythmic percussion and signature tempo changes. They also sound considerably more vitriolic than most bands who attempt this style, including the fact that the songs are rather direct, as they eschew anything remotely filler, which makes this a profoundly savage release reminiscent of a band like Conqueror. Moreover, they even employ Conqueror-esque riffs, which are done so well, and not to mention absolutely crushing and heavy as fuck. The production on this release is quite raw, but not in an unintelligible way. It’s actually perfect for this style and really brings out the best sound possible for the band.

As each track storms in and rages with unholy vengeance, the next track follows with a similar intensity. There's enough variety and depth to the music to warrant repeated listens. Anyone into vicious, bestial black/death, or war metal that's executed with absolute inexorable rage will fucking love this release. Recommended to fans of Abysmal Lord, Invultation, and Deiphago. (HT)

22 Dec 2021

Demo review: Hecatomb - Horrid Invocations (2021)


Hecatomb - Horrid Invocations

Australia/Norway

Invictus Productions


Hecatomb is an international project featuring Rick Warkill from Australia and Mangressor from Norway (Abhorration). Together, they unleash a fierce barrage of raw and bestial death metal that pays homage to the past in the most relentless sense.

"Horrid Invocations" is their debut demo, featuring five tracks of pure unbridled mayhem that give nods to *ahem* yes, Mayhem (Deathcrush era), Sadistik Exekution, and Sarcofago.

Several bands in recent memory have done this style rather well, including Morbid Insulter, Third Eye Rapists, Shitangel, and more recently, Abhorration. They don't try to sound old-school, they just play death metal, and that's what separates them from some retro band made up of members who look as if they formerly played in some shitty sludge or metalcore band (posers in other words). Hecatomb is the real deal. The music is absurdly crude, featuring a foray of harsh screams that sounds like an ancient demon just awoke, along with riffs that radiate nothing but darkness, and drums that plow through the songs with pure unyielding force. In addition, the artwork has that simplistic and underground look, which perfectly reflects what the band conveys with their music.

Overall, if you are looking for some raw, evil, and unapologetic metal of death, then "Horrid Invocations" will satisfy your craving. (HT)

21 Dec 2021

Album review: Autokrator - Persecution (2021)

Autokrator - Persecution

France

Krucyator Productions


"Persecution" is the fourth full-length album by the French black/death act Autokrator, which was released earlier this year through Krucyator Productions.

The music can be described as black/death metal replete with horrific nuances that will deeply penetrate your mind and make you feel as though you've crossed a portal into an abysmal realm. An atmosphere of pitch-black darkness permeates this album along with horror-like aesthetics.

Drums are mercilessly fast and sound almost programmed at times. However, it was confirmed they weren't, which makes the performance even more impressive, considering how dynamic the drummer is.

The vocals are very deep and abrasive, yet also well-balanced in the mix. They add a menacing aspect to the music, which further accentuates the heaviness of the riffs and drums. 

The fast and relentless bludgeoning of "De Gloria Martyrum Et Confessorum" will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up, while "DCLXVI" features savage vocal lines and nailing percussion that makes it equally devastating in its execution.

As a theme, the album examines the persecutions of Christians in ancient Rome, under the reigns of Diocletian, Marcus Aurelius, Domitian, and Trajan.

The songs have a tendency to blend into each other without the listener noticing it, so you'll be forgiven for thinking that you're still listening to the same track, while the music is well into the third track already. It's not a bad thing. The songs have a very cohesive flow, featuring drawn-out riffs and sinister nuances that will drag your soul into the very depths of hell. That, combined with the onslaught of brutal vocals - all makes Autokrator's latest offering worthwhile, although it is not without its shortcomings: while the album is severely punishing during some parts and gets better with repeated listens, it also has a tendency to drag a bit, particular during the last two tracks, which are a bit more instrumental, but still enjoyable.

Autokrator's approach varies from album to album, and that is what makes them interesting. The sound is cleaner and less cavernous than "Hammer Of The Heretics" without losing any of its relentlessness.

Overall, "Persecution" is a solid album that packs a powerful punch. It is certainly one of the more notable releases of this year and should be investigated by fans of dark and relentless black/death/doom. (HT)

Promo review: Abominablood - Agonizing Symphony of Deity (2021)

 

Abominablood - Agonizing Symphony of Deity

Argentina

Independent / Promo 


Abominablood hails from the dark Patagonia of Argentina and has already released a series of demos, splits, and EPs, that amount to quite an impressive discography.

The band is led by L. Warpig Venomous Abominator, who is the morbid composer behind everything, even though there are session musicians who collaborate.

Musically, this is ritualistic blackened death packed with nuances composed of utterly insane, throaty vocals radiating pus that fill your ears with worms, accompanied by overwhelming blast beats, and riffs that rip everything to shreds. It conjures up a filthy atmosphere unleashing vile aberrations at the listener in a pure Lovecraftian frame. The sound of the guitars fascinated me, especially when I heard those spectral guitar solos. Warpig achieves a sound that goes well with the concept it tries to convey through its four songs (an intro, two songs, and outro). His vocal style changes from an acute guttural growl to a serious one from the putrid bowels of death with surgical precision. The melodies that accompany the slower parts of the compositions are profoundly morbid and induce the listener into a deep and terrifying trance. Fans of bands like Cruciamentum, Disma, and Krypts will enjoy this. (Catacombs Walker)

16 Dec 2021

EP review: Tempter's Sacrament - Temptation Steel Scourge (2021)


Tempter's Sacrament - Temptation Steel Scourge

USA

Invictus Productions


Furious and well-executed Blackened Death/Thrash informed by the likes of Vomitor, Aura Noir, and Gospel of The Horns is what Tempter's Sacrament brings to the table with their debut EP, "Temptation Steel Scourge", which was recently released by Invictus Productions.

Throughout each of these four tracks, you will be subjected to a barrage of face-ripping riffs with wild, turbulent solos, unyielding and energetic drums, and infernal shrieks from the depths.

The EP is inaugurated with "Putrid Triumph" and immediately we are pulled into the abyss as the band belches out some sick as fuck riffs, thrashing ahead with confidence, with occasional bursts of speed and fury.

It's pretty clear that the band is well-rehearsed. Everything flows together really well and the arrangements are tight. In terms of musicianship, the guitars and song structures are verily impressive, paired with how utterly savage it all sounds.

The cover of Morbid Angel's "Unholy Blasphemies" will rip right through you, as it conveys the right amount of intensity, with the band adding their own evil and sick twist to this much acclaimed classic track.

As I understand it, the group is already working on their debut album, so this EP will serve as a taster for what's to come, and from what I can tell, the forthcoming album should be an absolute ripper.

Overall, this 14-minute EP comes as a blessing for those with a penchant for true unholy metal mayhem, as "Temptation Steel Scourge" delivers the goods. (HT)

14 Dec 2021

Album review: Loup Noir – Requiem (2021)

Loup Noir – Requiem

France

Death To Peace Productions


Loup Noir ("black wolf") from France is the project of sole musician Alrinack. He seems to be behind a dozen other projects as well, although this is the first of them that I have heard.

"Requiem" consists of six songs of pure black metal with minimalist arrangements and an underproduced sound that suits the music they play.

You can expect nothing less than an auspicious slab of raw black metal done right, as the whole album is replete with compositional depth and an atmosphere that is both melancholic and rich in texture.

Loup Noir has that characteristic French sound, which is always apparent in their music. While I wouldn't claim this to be the next best thing, Loup Noir's music is certainly moving enough to leave an impression on the ears of anyone with a proclivity for true underground black metal.

The interplay between the drums and guitars differs in interesting ways as the music incorporates intriguing passages filled with spooky, yet decidedly melancholic riffs, which in addition is complemented with an array of haunting howls and screams.

The songs range from mid-tempo to slower, more brooding passages, but one thing that is certain is that the flow always feels right, including the fact that each composition flows together seamlessly.

Overall, "Requiem" has a very strong feeling of decadence, in addition to its minimalistic approach giving it an emphatically nostalgic tone. Furthermore, the music has a lot of replay value, with the music hardly wearing off after the first couple of spins. This is simply excellent black metal. (HT)


10 Dec 2021

Album review: Paganfire - Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths... (2021)

 

Paganfire – Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths...

The Philippines

Bandcamp


Thrash is definitely not dead, and Paganfire proves this with their latest opus, "Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths...", which is a total poser holocaust from beginning to end.

Over the years, the band has put out a dozen demos, EPs, and splits, but for some reason, this is only their second full-length. They are definitely an underground band in the true sense of the word.

Paganfire's brand of thrash is unyielding, brutal, and energetic, often defying easy categorization due to sounding rawer and more violent than most bands in the genre. Make no mistake, this is essentially thrash, but with more than a fair share of black/death influences in their sound.

As opener "Bloodsoaked Life" kicks in, guitarists Nonoy and M.A. complement each other with a plethora of cunt-shredding riffs, brutalizing ears with sheer ferocity and precise arrangements. Riffs are aplenty and Paganfire makes good use of them.

Alvaro's screams are fierce, pissed off, and in your face, as he utters every word with intense determination.

Paganfire follows the tradition of having solos in their music, as each track features at least one solo, but also inflicts trauma with Jay's hard-hitting, yet well-played drums and Alvaro's thunderous bass lines. As a whole, each member contributes to the madness, yielding a sickened and furious slab of skull-fucking thrash that will leave you wanting more.

On "Poseurdom Shall Fall" you can hear infernal riffs and screams reminiscent of Sarcofago, while "The Executor is Back" is a fiery track filled with razor-sharp solos and a Slayer-inspired riff towards the end.

The cover art is perfect for this kind of thrash and gives a good indication of the band's sound and ethos.

Paganfire's second album was well worth the wait and features some of the best material they've released so far. In my opinion, "Of Deathblades And Bloodsoaked Paths..." is the best thrash album of the year, and if not, it sure as hell comes close. Check them out if you enjoy Num Skull, Sarcofago, and Demolition Hammer. Apparently, a few labels will release this, although the labels haven't been announced yet. (HT)

Album review: Invultation – Unconquerable Death (2021)


Invultation – Unconquerable Death

USA

Born For Burning Productions (CD) / Sentient Ruin Laboratories (LP)


Hailing from Ohoi, USA, Invultation strike with their second full-length album entitled, "Unconquerable Death", which was released by Born For Burning Productions earlier this year. Andrew Lampe (Echushkya, Longbarrow, The Wakedead Gathering) is the sole musician behind this project.

Musically, the sound leans towards bestial and filthy Black/Death informed by bands such as Teitanblood, Proclamation, and Archgoat. Those who enjoy the aforementioned bands will certainly appreciate what Invultation has to offer, as the music exudes a profoundly blasphemous atmosphere.

Opening track, "Hanged Mass" begins with a short, but sinister ambiance before a roar of pure unbridled chaos plunges the listener into the abyss.

The songs on this release offers a variety of tempos, from mid to hammering fast parts, as well as a series of whore-sodomizing riffs that will have you bang your skull from beginning to end.

Tracks like "Insatiable Cruelty" and "Banners Under The Moon" feature blistering guitar solos that will make your brain explode. As a matter of fact, this whole album is full of sick riffs and frantic solos, which certainly adds a very chaotic aspect to the music, coupled with the mix of insanely deep and evil vocals.

One of the biggest strengths of this album is the compositional depth and consistency of the music. The music is easily distinguished from one track to the next, as there is enough variety to keep it from becoming monotonous.

All in all, "Unconquerable Death" is an apotheosis of filth and darkness, as Invultation offers an arsenal of bestial metal styles that epitomizes the genre. From its killer aesthetics to the artwork to its ominous music, everything about Invultation feels right. (HT)


8 Dec 2021

Album review: Brutal Sphere - World Decomposing by Vermin (2021)

Brutal Sphere - World Decomposing by Vermin

France

Independent


"World Decomposing by Vermin" is the second and latest full-length album from French death metal band Brutal Sphere, which will be released independently by the band on 17th December.

Now, I haven't heard their first album (yet), but the band seems to have new members in their line-up, including Nick on vocals, whom I interviewed in regards to his label, Hessian Firm.

The music presented here is death metal through and through, as guitarist Pierre belches out an array of unholy riffs that will tear your soul apart.

The track "Death Is Just The Beginning" features a killer mid-tempo and some verily evil vocal effects, while "Declaration of War" mixes a somber atmosphere with crushing riffs. The aforementioned track has a slight blackened feel to it.

I really like the vocals. They're powerful and filled with aggression. From vicious growls to blood-curdling screams, the vocals are well arranged and balanced in the mix.

A good deal of creativity is present in the songs, which keeps them interesting and entertaining throughout their duration.

This album contains some good bass playing from Olivier. His bass is thick, well played, and always audible, as exemplified by the track "Sphere of Evil".

The drumming is pretty basic for the most part but provides fitting tempos and some great double bass to go with the various arrangements.

The drums and bass complement each other in a way that reminds me of Bolt Thrower, but there are also riff segments that resemble Cianide, especially the track "Trinity," which is a near six-minute track filled with stomping riffs.

The artwork appears to resemble wormlike creatures from another planet, which is presumably the sphere referred to in the band's name.

Overall, "World Decomposing by Vermin" is an excellent release from these French death metallers, which will undoubtedly earn them some acclaim. Recommended. (HT)


7 Dec 2021

EP review: Goat - Collapse (2021)

Goat – Collapse

Greece

Independent (Promo)

Goat from West Macedonia, Greece, attack with their latest EP called “Collapse”, featuring three short tracks of devastating Blackened Death Metal.

I'm surprised I haven't heard of these Hellenic tyrants before. The only other "Goat" I know is the one from Denmark, then of course Greek bands like Goatvomit and Wargoat (both excellent).

"Collapse" is obviously meant as a promo for labels to get the band signed, hence the short duration, although I don't think they will have any trouble linking a deal with some killer underground label considering how deadly and well-executed their music is.

A totally filthy production permeate this release, as an absence of melody gives the music a verily brutal dynamic. Their music is as crude and blasphemous as their name implies, with goat representing the devil in all its ferocity.

The track "Obliterate The Bastard Breed" will rip your ears off, as fast and merciless drums pound away atop visceral grunts and savage guitar riffs, while the title track "Collapse" offers more of the same with its rapid drums and pulverising riffs.

There is certainly a Greek influence in their riffs that is discernible and can also be heard in other Greek bands. That being said, there's definitely more to their sound than just brutal War Metal. A better artwork would be a great improvement, but as a promo, it is OK in my opinion. A little more variety and creativity in the songs would also be a good thing.

All in all, if you like bestial Black/Death Metal or "War Metal", then Goat from Greece is the band for you. For fans of Morbosidad, Abhorer, and Goatpenis. (HT)


1 Dec 2021

Demo review: Nortavlaggh.377 – Demo 2021 (2021)


 Nortavlaggh.377 – Demo 2021

Singapore

Independent


Nortavlaggh.377 is a Singapore-based one-man project that has been around since 2004 with only a couple of demos and one split under its belt. Now, I haven’t heard much of their old material, but I can confidently assert that the new demo slays on all fronts. The three tracks featured here are absolutely fierce Black/Death in the purest sense that sometimes borders on War metal.


Whether it's the riffs, the vocals, or the arrangements, everything is exceptionally well-executed, with the music itself inspiring homicidal impulses. It would be silly to compare Nortavlaggh.377 to other Singaporean bands like Impiety, Infernal Execrator, and Abhorer because honestly, this project sounds nothing like those bands, except maybe for the fact that they all exude a similar kind of war-like fury. It is no secret that Singapore produces some pretty extreme bands, and Nortavlaggh.377 just further confirms that fact. The vocals are wartorn screams filled with hate, while the riffs crush wimps with fast tremelo pickings and a black metal-like atmosphere. The drums are fast and merciless, befitting of the style.

Nortavlaggh.377 will satisfy black/death fans who appreciate fast, relentless and violent music, particularly those with an affinity for bands like Diocletian, Witchrist, and Arkhon Infaustus. (HT)

29 Nov 2021

EP review: Goatskullt - Tevras (2021)


Goatskullt - Tevras

Finland

Independent

Goatskullt from Finland has released a new EP entitled, “Tevras”. Musically, the band unleashes a furious barrage of pummeling, aggressive black metal that will rip your face off. The music is relatively straightforward and reminiscent of Impaled Nazarene at times, especially since they show some punk tendencies. It’s a pity the band isn’t more well-known because their music totally kills.

There’s enough grit and punishing riffs to make this release worth your time, including the fact that the vocals are completely manic. The bulk of the music consists of rapid drumming, maniacal vocals, and hellish riffs. However, the band also has some slower numbers like “Tyhjyydestä” which is a pretty cool hymn. Vocals are sung in Finnish, which is something I appreciate, as the passion behind the music is more pronounced when bands sing in their native tongue (hardly an “original” opinion, but it’s true).

Goatskullt’s take on black metal is uncompromising and brutal, with an inclination towards hardcore punk. I’ve heard some bands blend the two genres before, but few do it as proficiently as Goatskullt. Overall, a pretty cool band and killer EP that’s worth checking out by anyone into bona fide metal. (HT)
 

28 Nov 2021

Album review: Cathaaria – Coin of the Realm (2021)

Cathaaria – Coin of The Realm

Finland

Esoteric Tradition


Cathaaria is the blackened Sludge/Doom project of Matron Thorn (Benighted In Sodom, Death Fetishist, etc.) and “Coin of The Realm” is his debut album. There are six songs in total, and most of the tracks are pretty lengthy, save for the intro. From the beginning of “Real Country Dark” I could detect the signature Matron Thorn style, which is poured all over this release. While I would be reluctant to call this an extreme metal record, there’s certainly metallic nuances in the music. Essentially, the music is pretty dark, and bleak, as well as atmospheric. The whiskey-ridden vocals pair well with the sludgy guitars and horror-like ambiance.

The following excerpt is taken from the band’s bandcamp page:

Matron Thorn presents Cathaaria, Lovecraftian Sludge Doom for serial murder, the fetishistic and mentally ill. Music for the old ways, the lost and forbidden. For best results, pair with whiskey and morphine.”

Admittedly, I love the artwork. It’s more than applicable for this type of music. Musically, it's not bad for a first album, but I don't think Cathaaria has reached its full potential yet. Though the album works best when absorbed as a whole, I just don't think the songs are strong enough when picked out individually. I'm no self-proclaimed "expert," but I think I would've enjoyed it more if the guitars were heavier and more menacing, and if metallic elements were more prominent. Then again, Cathaaria’s debut isn’t terribly offensive to these ears either, and even exhibits some redeeming qualities that people into Black/Death will appreciate. However, one must bear in mind that it's definitely good for what it is.

Overall, I think people into psychedelic, dark and experimental music might appreciate this, especially if you like bands such as Danzig, Acid Bath, or even Blut Aus Nord, because that’s what Cathaaria sounds like more or less – like a warped mix of the aforementioned acts, but more low-key. Worth checking out. (HT)


Album review: Vox Mortis - Avignam Jagat Samagram (2021)


Vox Mortis - Avignam Jagat Samagram

Indonesia

Cerberus Productions


Vox Mortis from Indonesia may have taken inspiration from Cattle Decapitation since they have songs like "Forever No to Dog Meat". This band appears to have a pro-animal stance, as it is evident in their themes. I was expecting to hear something slam-like and brutal prior to playing this album, and that is exactly what I heard considering that Brutal Death Metal is quite popular in Indonesia. The thing that amazes me about that whole scene is that, while it might not be my favorite subgenre, the Indonesians have a knack for performing it and play it with absolute fervor. Vox Mortis' debut album, "Avignam Jagat Samagram", is a gnarly slab of brutal death metal infused with slamming grooves and grating grind sensibilities. As expected with most bands in this genre, the production is relatively clean, but on the other hand, it fits the style rather well.


There is no doubt that these guys are accomplished musicians since the music is bursting with rapid blasts, heavy bass lines and lightning-fast riffs. A few of the tracks also feature keyboards, giving the music a slight symphonic touch. The cover art is quite comical since it shows a monstrous dog about to wreak havoc on humanity. I love dogs, so I'm pretty sure that dog on the cover will spare my life. This will definitely appeal to fans of bands such as Suffocation, Cattle Decapitation, and Abominable Devourment. Good stuff. (HT)

EP review: Deified Shreds – Overcoming The Fractal Deception (2021)


 Deified Shreds – Overcoming The Fractal Deception

Greece

Iron Blood and Death Corporation

Now here’s a cool band. Deified Shreds from Athens, Greece, reminds me of old Malevolent Creation mixed with Deicide and Suffocation. They also have that trademark “Greek” sound infused into their music, as one can draw similarities to other Greek bands like Resurgency (same vocalist) and Dead Congregation

In case anyone reading this is unaware, Greek Death Metal is unfortunately quite underrated, and also absurdly militant and brutal for the most part, which is why I like their scene. 

Deified Shreds continues the tradition, as the four songs contained on their debut EP are replete with meathook riffs, menacing vocals, and thrashy, yet old-school drumming. The drums have a type of crisp, cool sound to them, which fits well with their style. It’s mammoth-like heavy and pure death metal in every possible way. 

The musicianship is pretty proficient, but not in a flashy, overly technical sense. Solos are short but masterful and well-executed.  

The more I hear this EP, the more I like it. it’s verily punishing and a treat for fans of solid Death Metal, or people into the bands mentioned earlier in the review. Check them out! (HT)