METAL SIDE – www.deathmetalside.com – May – June 2005

Reviews – part 32 



Abhorred

“Wallowing in Utter Chaos”

2005, Not Common Records

Massachusetts has a new Death Metal sensation. It’s called Abhorred. “Wallowing in Utter Chaos” contains of 11 tracks composed by very talented songwriters who managed to combine the best features of Death Metal brutality and Thrash Metal aggression. Death Metal influences are stronger. First of all, the vocals are Death Metal-oriented. Also many riffs continue the great traditions of Death Metal from the late 80’s and early 90’s. Thrash Metal-inspired riffs are sometimes impressive. Analyzing them, I hear something from Slayer but first of all many ideas born in Abhorred’s minds. All tracks are worth complimenting but some of them are true highlights. “Forever War” reminds me of the fury typical for Insanity’s classic “Death after Death”. The follow-up track “Collective Strangulation” has brilliant chorus, sick solo, and demolishing tempo. “Detox” is impressively intense. “Bearer of Built” brings a bit different riffing, which sometimes is like a ten times heavier version of Stoner Rock. But such additions aren’t frequent. The dominant features of “Wallowing in Utter Chaos” are brutality and fury. You can say that it’s typical combination for Death Metal releases. But Abhorred’s interpretation of such traditional formula is really outstanding. www.massholes.org/abhorred


Artillery Hell

“Demo 2005”

San Jose’s Artillery Hell plays mid-paced Thrash/Death Metal. Some riffs from the demo remind me of Slayer and Testament but these influences are only a fragment of Artillery Hell’s style. It’s important that the trio tries to use old ideas creatively, and isn’t afraid to experiment a bit. They mix technical Thrash Metal riffs with rather Black Metal-oriented vocals (although these vocals aren’t pure Black Metal shrieks; their modulation is more varied). Such combination is interesting and makes their music sick: this adjective can suggest you the mood of the material. Artillery Hell’s songwriting is solid: I like the tempo changes, which are sometimes surprisingly complex. On the other hand, these two compositions have no speedups and I’m afraid that if Artillery Hell recorded more such mid-paced songs, the material could get monotonous after 5th or 6th track. The full-length album, which they will probably record, should be more varied. I can’t complain that Artillery Hell’s demo isn’t dynamic enough. The riffing is intense. However, I think that a faster drumming in some parts would be a good solution. That’s why I’m very curious to hear other Artillery Hell’s compositions. It’s very likely that they would make my warnings completely unnecessary. Artllery Hell’s members are good instrumentalists so the future belongs to them. www.artilleryhell.com


Biovore

“Scientific Proof”

2002, Battlezone Records

I heard Biovore in 1994, on one of the great compilations from series “Midnight Offerings”, presented by King Fowley and released by his With Your Teeth Records. Unfortunately, I knew at the time only one track since I didn’t find band’s early demo, “Autumn Rot” (1993). I regretted that my knowledge of Biovore’s music is so fragmentary because Biovore seemed to be an interesting brutal US Death Metal outfit. Only a decade later I had a pleasure to hear a full-length debut of Maryland’s band. And once again, it wouldn’t be possible without King Fowley who released “Scientific Proof” (Battlezone Records!) and sent me its promo copy (big Thanks!). The evolution of Biovore’s style is significant. It’s different band now than in the early 90’s. And I have to say at once that “Scientific Proof” is a big step forward, at least comparing with the track I heard in the mid 90’s. Currently, Death Metal isn’t the best label for Biovore’s music although some connections with that brutal style remained. However, “Scientific Proof” is first of all a very good, original Progressive/Thrash Metal material. Voivod is probably the best comparison but Biovore brings many new ideas and avoids too strong similarities. It’s not catchy music for easy listening. Complicated riffs and track-structures force the listener to think. I needed to hear “Scientific Proof” few times to notice many interesting details, and I still discover the new ones. But it’s not hermetic music only for small number of the worshippers. Biovore’s riffs, although ambitious and far from any trends, are still first of all Metal to the core. Their unique sound doesn’t lose the connections with Speed and Heavy Metal heritage of the 80’s. It’s still aggressive and violent music, especially in the fastest tracks like “Fate” or “Freak of Nature”. Such mixture of progressiveness and tradition will please many open-minded fans of Death Metal, Progressive Metal, Thrash Metal or classical Heavy Metal. And I don’t need any scientific methods to prove it. A good music is always more important than its description. 


Blood Obsession

“Death Surrounds”

2004, self-released

Blood Obsession comes from AlbanyNY. I liked “Death Surrounds” at once. It is simple material: brutal, fast, and uncompromising. All trends are ignored and only pure Death Metal matters. Describing “Death Surrounds” I have to mention two well-known bands that may be good comparisons for you to imagine what Blood Obsession plays. These bands are Pessimist (from the third album “Slaughtering the Faithful” and Horror of Horrors). I think that Albany’s group is something between them. In my eyes such localization suggests that the band has chosen a very good way to play Death Metal. Obviously, without original ideas all such similarities can be disastrous but Blood Obsession has original ideas so playing well-known Death Metal style the authors of “Death Surrounds” won’t be one of the hundreds anonymous bands. The debut album is self-financed release so perhaps the only thing Blood Obsession needs is a recording deal with good independent record label which would help to promote its music in the future. http://www.bloodobsession.com/


Bowels Out

“Remnants of Gutted Bowels”

2004, self-released

Bowels Out is the third band from El Paso I heard. Reign of Terror and Obeisance were very good. Bowels Out has equally many advantages. While Reign of Terror plays brutal Death Metal and Obeisance presents blackened Death/Thrash, Bowels Out’s stylistic choice is fast Grind/Death. That’s very violent music with many blast beats, shredding riffs and brutal vocals. It’s a must for those who like Terrorizer, Dying Fetus or Gorgasm. The material isn’t long: 8 tracks and 13 minutes but its intensity is murderous. The compositions have many good tempo changes so this fast material is very well-organized and varied although some tracks are shorter than two minutes. Bowels Out signed a deal with CDN Records that’s why we should hear more devastating music soon. http://www.bloodobsession.com/


Cianide

“Hell’s Rebirth”

2005, Displeased Records

Cianide has never let me down. This band is a true master of old school Death Metal. I liked their style when I heard debut album “The Dying Truth”. This style was evolving in the 90’s but never denied its roots. Analyzing Cianide’s discography, the music from their all albums, one can notice that it’s one of the most coherent discographies of US Death Metal scene. There’re bands that only copy the ideas from their recordings. Their new albums are onlynew versions of the previous ones. Cianide has very stable style but every time when they release a new album, I’m sure that it’ll be another very good material with new ideas and new energy. “Hell’s Rebirth” isn’t an exception. I’m thinking seriously if I should call it the best Cianide’s album to date. The riffing, the tempos, the vocals, and the drumming: everything is perfect. The fury of “The Age of Hell’s Rebirth” as well as the pure brutality expressed in “World Abyss”, are excellent proof that the 5th album can be equally inspiring like the first one. I regret that some of the legends from the past that are still active and release new CD’s don’t follow Cianide’s way. But it is as well a great recommendation for the band from Illinois. They rule. http://www.displeasedrecords.com/



Cobalt

“War Metal”

2005, Displeased Records

Frankly, I heard of Cobalt only when they signed a deal with Displeased Records. I was very curious if Displeased was right comparing Cobalt with Abominator. When I heard “War Metal” I could agree with such comparison, although Cobalt’s style isn’t a copy of Australian Death Metal monster. There are some similarities but they don’t define Cobalt’s music. Utah’s band (but don’t expect orthodox Mormons in the line-up) combines Death and Black Metal. The riffs and track structures are in my opinion more Death Metal-oriented while the vocals have Black Metal modulation. The material is pretty melodic but never too catchy. Sometimes it seems that the tracks could be a bit shorter or more varied. I have such impression listening to some mid-paced parts. On the other hand when Cobalt plays fast riffs it is dynamic music and I like its aggression. http://www.displeasedrecords.com/



Departed

“Demo”

Departed’s demo has very good opener. “Slaughtering the Lambs” is powerful, fast track with good tempo and riffs. Its opening parts are truly brutal assault. In the middle of the track there’re some tempo changes but the dominating riffs and violent drumming come back always in the right time. It is good California’s Death Metal that has the roots in Thrash/Speed Metal from the mid and late 80’s when Slayer’s shredding riffs and devastating drum beats set the standards for brutal music in the sunny state. “Slaughtering the Lambs” has many of those good, traditional features of California’s brutality. The next track, “Escalator to Hell (the Descent)” has very peaceful beginning but melodic and clean guitars are only introduction. After about 90 seconds Departed reminds that is first of all Death Metal band. Low-tuned guitars destroy the calm atmosphere at once. And again, the fast drumming gives Departed’s music a good tempo. The last song, “I Am Wrath” is slower, mainly mid-paced. Frankly, in my opinion it’s much worse than the previous ones. It hasn’t that energy that I like listening to “Slaughtering the Lambs” and “Escalator to Hell (the Descent)”. Anyway, my impressions when I listen to Departed are very positive. California’s musicians prepare the new material. The debut demo is solid foundation for their further musical evolution. www.myspace.com/departed


Digested Flesh

“The Answer to Infection”

2004, Macabre Mementos

It’s interesting that if the record labels from Japan that deal with Heavy Metal sign US bands, those bands play usually very brutal, so called guttural Death Metal. Just look at the lists of releases from Macabre Mementos and Amputated Vein and you will see such names like Enmity, Gemisuadi, Malamor, Goratory, Eternal Ruin... That’s nothing but brutality in a pure form. Digested Flesh isn’t exception. New Jersey’s band is one of the best bands signed by the Japanees. It’s a good material for all fans of Devourment, Deaden, Lividity, Goratory, Teratism, Lust of Decay, Necrotic Disgorgement, or Malignancy, so those who like fast drumming, guttural vocals, sick riffs, and low-tuned guitars. Digested Flesh has no mercy for those who would like to hear some melodic riffs or very varied blend of different influences. “The Answer to Infection” is free of any non-brutal elements. I appreciate such consequency. Everything what would make this material less brutal, would make this material weaker. As one can’t find any such additions, “The Answer to Infliction” is really a good proposal in its category. www.digestedflesh.com



Domination Through Impurity

“Essence of Brutality”

2005, Comatose Music

Domination Through Impurity is collaboration of Joe Payne and Jordan Varela so musicians known from Lust of Decay and Debodified (RIP), the leading bands of North Carolina’s scene. The third band’s member is Dan Royer from Scapegoat who joined them after the recording of the debut album. “Essence of Brutality” is a suggestive title, especially taking into consideration previous materials of these musicians. I could expect only brutal US Death Metal. The only question was if Payne and Varela would be able to present something new what would make Domination Through Impurity different from Lust of Decay and Debodified and justify the idea to form such project. They’re totally successful. If I had any doubts, they disappeared immediately when I heard the opening tracks. It’s very good material: fast, brutal and technical. Hearing some similarities with Lust of Decay and Debodified, I find also on this album some stylistic connections with Severed Savior and Deeds of Flesh. And obviously I hear Payne and Varela’s new ideas which are most important. Good tempo and good, reasonable length of the album make the material very intense. 26 minutes are the perfect length for such technical and brutal style. I should also compliment the instrumental skills of North Carolina’s musicians. I’m not surprised that they were invited lately to play with two heroes of the genre: Lividity (Varela) and Nile (Payne). It’s the best recommendation. But I see one bad side of such situation or rather one danger: if we will hear a second Domination Through Impurity’s album. I hope that such talented project won’t be sacrificed to fulfill other commitments. www.comatosemusic.com


Final Redemption

“Demo 2005”

Final Redemption’s demo is a good material for those who admire Internal Bleeding, Pyrexia, and other similar bands that play powerful and rhythmic Death Metal. When I observe US underground I have impression that such style is much less popular now than in late 90’s. That’s why good to hear the band that plays it and does that really good. Final Redemption comes from Maryland. Reviewing their material, I have to underline two very important features: heaviness and intensity. Final Redemption delivers many good riffs which are like a roller. They are mainly mid-paced and slow. Faster parts are rare but such music doesn’t need them to impress its fans. Rhythm is much more important than speed. The deep vocals have good modulation. High-pitched backing vocals are typical but their role is useful since they diversify the material. www.finalredemption.net



Fogcrawler

“Welcome to your Suffering”

2005, Misery Productions

When I heard of Fogcrawler’s debut album, I was very glad that they chose Chris Djuricic to record their album. All of his Death Metal works have very good sound (take as examples Fleshgrind or Gorgasm), and “Welcome to your Suffering” continues this series. But good production will not save the band if the band hasn’t good compositions. That’s why I was very curious what Fogcrawler would present, especially that I read that one of the influences of Wisconsin’s band is Broken Hope. “Welcome to your Suffering” didn’t let me down. It’s very heavy material, not as complicated as latest Broken Hope’s releases, but definitely on Fogcrawler’s album you will hear ten very good compositions (+ Intro) that remind of Broken Hope’s unique brutality. However, I would be unfair if I concentrated on such similarities and comparisons. “Reflection”, “Necrofelinity” and frankly each track from “Welcome to your Suffering”, deserve to compliment them because of their originality. The heaviness and intensity are the consequence of powerful riffs and deep vocals. Since mid-tempo is dominant, the blast beats play much less significant role than on typical US Death Metal album. I wouldn’t regret if some tracks had been faster, but Fogcrawler’s style doesn’t need any big changes. Its current form makes “Welcome to your Suffering” one of the best releases from Wisconsin in years. www.fogcrawler.com


Fuck U All

“Retribution”

2005, promo of the upcoming new EP

When I did the interview with FUA after their self-titled debut, they announced that the new material would be more Metal-core oriented. Such way of musical evolution wasn’t only a declaration. The new material is more Metal-core oriented although the change isn’t drastic for self-titled already had many features of that genre. Perhaps the new FUA’s effigy isn’t as brutal as previously, but it’s still aggressive material. The riffing has become more melodic and in consequence catchier. Mid-paced drumming and riffing is the foundation of the material. From time to time, FUA plays fast but they’re not as grinding band now like on the previous release. I regret a bit that the speed is more controlled now but I can’t criticize these solid compositions. FUA proves the talent. http://www.fuck-u-all.cjb.net



Infernal Legion

“Your Prayers Mean Nothing”

2005, Moribund Cult

Infernal Legion’s previous CD belonged to the best independent releases from West Coast in 2002. Unfortunately, because of the relatively weak promotion, “Angelicide” was underrated or rather unknown album for many fans of extreme music who would have been delighted if they only had a chance to hear it. A deal with Moribund Cult gave this talented Washington’s band a chance to have bigger exposure. And Infernal Legion didn’t waste such chance. “Your Prayers Mean Nothing” is very good material, better than “Angelicide” no matter what we compare. First of all, band’s songwriting is much improved taking into consideration the track-structures. These six compositions deserve to call them “epic” ones. They aren’t very long (about 6, 7 minutes) but they’re a very good blend of slow, massive riffs and brutal speedups. They have great riffs as well. It’s pure old-school of Death Metal, a great proposal for fans of Morbid Angel, Incantation, Ceremonium, or Disciples of Mockery, although Infernal Legion’s music offers than only well-known patterns. I was very surprised when I heard the opening track “Frenzy the Legion”. It has slow, very rhythmic and monumental opening riffs. They remind me of the opener of Morbid Angel’s masterpiece “Blessed Are The Sick” – “Fall From Grace”. I expected that after such beginning I would hear a violent speedup that would transform the composition into a fast and furious track. But instead of blast beasts and demonic vocals, we hear only powerful, slow riffs, and that’s entirely instrumental composition: over five minutes of very heavy introduction. The next songs have very good vocals: classical deep Death Metal voice. They have also fast parts but the slow-paced annihilation dominates. It’s definitely not trendy music although composed in times when more and more bands want to play very fast Death Metal. And although I’m a devoted fan of such violent and fast styles, I’m very glad that Infernal Legion has chosen another way. It’s one of the reasons why “Your Prayers Mean Nothing” is so original album, especially that Washington’s musicians are very good songwriters. If you’re afraid that their blend of slow and fast parts is monotonous, I can assure you that Infernal Legion diversified the material enough to avoid such danger. Obviously, when the album is so coherent, one can have some doubts if it needs more diversity. On the other hand, such coherency is its strong side for it helps to create a unique dark atmosphere. “Your Prayers Mean Nothing” is one of three albums Infernal Legion was to record for Moribund Cult that’s why with the help of such good independent record label, Washington’s band have a chance become very prominent representative of West Coast’s Death Metal. http://www.infernallegion.com/www.moribundcult.com


Inheritance

“Shadowstorm In The Azure Sky” 2004

“Daemonium”, 2005

Melodic Death Metal hasn’t glorious traditions in the USA. Too many bands that try to play it only imitate Scandinavian influences. Fortunately, we have some exceptions. Inheritance is a very bright example of the band that has much more to offer than typical US melodic Metal outfit. First of all, although melodic riffs are the foundation of the riffing on both demos, they are also dynamic and brutal enough to keep the standards of good US Death Metal. The bands that are the bad copies of Scandinavian Black/Death Metal always have problems to find a balance of melodic riffing and brutality. They adore melodies and disregard brutality. Inheritance doesn’t make such mistake. That’s why “Shadowstorm In The Azure Sky” and Daemonium” should be interesting for much wider group of the listeners than only maniacs of melodic Scandinavian scene. But much more important than the fact if the riffs are melodic or brutal, is their originality. I can’t say that Inheritance discovers something new but varied riffing is worth complimenting, especially on the newest Demo, which shows a progression of band’s songwriting. New compositions have more interesting track-structures although I have to underline at once that older demo has equally good riffs and it’s more dynamic than newest effort. I think as well that the riffing of older tracks has more Thrash Metal-oriented elements while new demo is stronger rooted in Death/Black Metal orthodoxy. The analysis of those details is a bit subjective but one can say objectively that Inheritance is simply good band. http://inheritancemetal.cjb.net


Into The Grey

“Demo”

The band from Texas, with former Sarcoma’s members in the line-up, presents only two tracks. Short demo isn’t bad, however, to judge the band’s style. This style is first of all brutal. It’s interesting that Into The Grey didn’t copy the most dominant current trends in Brutal Death Metal. Instead of very fast Death Metal which is most typical now, Into The Grey decided to play mid-paced riffs with only occasional very fast drumming. The intensity and heaviness of the material is good enough not to worry that it isn’t furious, ultra fast music. I tried to find some good comparisons for you, but it’s not so easy. Into The Grey is one of those bands which don’t invent anything new but are original enough to avoid all easy labels. I thought about Devourment but I realized very quickly that such comparisons wouldn’t be precise. However, I’d like to hear more Into The Grey’s tracks to formulate the thesis about their originality. The compositions from demo are promising and I like them, but we need more. http://www.myspace.com/intothegreywww.intothegery.net


Mandatory Death 

“Clashing of the Swords”

2004, MDK Productions

Canada’s Thrash Metal scene isn’t very big but its bands belong to the best ones. Only US scene is better. Having such great acts like Annihilator, Razor, or SacrificeCanada can be really proud of the Thrash Metal movement. On the other hand, the best Canada’s Thrash Metal bands started their career in the 80’s. They dominated in the 90’s, and some of them – especially Annihilator – don’t lose the dominant position nowadays. One of the reasons of such situation is their exceptional talent. But there’s another reason that is much less positive. Unfortunately, the new talents emerge from the Canada’s Thrash Metal underground rarely. To some degree, it’s natural consequence of the fact that Thrash Metal is in the shadow of other forms of Metal, especially Death Metal and Metal-core. It’s not only the problem of Canada’s underground. No matter which scene you would analyze, you would see the same phenomenon. However, if you wanted to hear a new good Thrash Metal band from Canada, you should find Mandatory Death’s album and listening to it, you won’t probably think of the crisis of Canada’s scene. It’s not sensational debut that will be a turning point for Thrash Metal history, but definitely it’s good and solid release. Mandatory Death plays energetic Thrash Metal with very competent instrumental parts, interesting riffing, and good vocals. Listening to “Clashing of the Swords”, I think that the best comparisons are California’s bands from the 80’s like Slayer or Evil Dead, especially when the Canadians play fast. Sometimes they use softer, melodic riffs like in the opening parts of “M.D.K.”, but generally speaking the riffing is aggressive. If Mandatory Death continued such style, eliminating some small defects of songwriting, typical for the band that only starts its career, the next album may be very important release for Canada’s Thrash Metal. Canada’s scene needs such refreshing proposals which worship the old ideas from the 80’s and early 90’s but have a new fresh look as well. http://www.mandatorydeath.com/



Necrobound

“Demo 2005”

Necrobound is undoubtedly one of the best Death Metal bands that have ever emerged from the Arkansas underground. Someone cynical and malicious could say that the scene in Arkansas has never been strong that’s why the supremacy in Arkansas doesn’t mean anything yet. That would be unfair conclusion. Necrobound is objectively good band and the debut demo proves it. Necrobound decided to record the material in Springfield, MO. The producer of the demo was Greg Ponder. Metal Side’s readers know him from Forever Shadows. Necrobound plays pure Death Metal with good balance of different tempos. The compositions are coherent, based on good riffs and well-placed tempo changes. It’s not very violent music but brutal parts are dominant. The stylistic roots of the riffs are in the Death Metal from early 90’s. If we speak of the most prominent DM schools from that time, classical Florida’s DM is more audible here than New York’s DM but Necrobound has also other influences, including non Death Metal ones, and such wide musical background is probably one of the reasons why the demo is interesting and original taking into consideration its style and its difference from the current trends of US scene so very fast DM and melodic DM. The vocals will please the fans of DM orthodoxy since they’re raw and deep. I think that the entire material should have a good response in the underground. www.myspace.com/necrobound



Non-Existence

“Demo 2003 & 2004”

Most of Death Metal bands from Washington that I know prefer traditional Death Metal styles inspired by Morbid Angel, Immolation or Incantation. They use very often that heritage really impressively. Drawn & Quartered, Funeral Age, Scorched Earth, and Serpens Aeon are good examples how strong Washington’s scene is. Non-Existence doesn’t follow those most traditional Death Metal styles but it’s one more good band from that state. I think that trying to find the best comparisons for Non-Existence, one can use such names like Misery Index or Dying Fetus although some restrictions are necessary. First of all, Washington’s band doesn’t play as fast as those Maryland’s artists. Non-Existence prefers mid-paced tempo with only occasional very fast parts. So you may wonder why I use such comparison. I think that Non-Existence’s rhythms and riffing justify my theory. Obviously, once again we can’t say that Non-Existence’s music a very precise and simple continuation of Misery Index and Dying Fetus ideas. Fortunately, Washington’s musicians have own ideas and it makes their material really interesting. They know as well how to surprise the listener changing the tempo. A good example is “Animosity”, which has sometimes pretty unusual riffs. Frankly, listening to such compositions, I’m wondering if my comparisons make any sense. Describing Non-Existence is rather better to say that it’s original band. It plays powerful music. Riffs and vocals are brutal but in a very special way. They’re very sharp. I think that more parts with fast drumming would make Non-Existence materials more devastating. A good blend of fast and mid-paced tempos is “Blood Rain”. That’s my favorite track from the demos, the demos of interesting, talented band that definitely hasn’t told the last word. I have also brand new material, without vocals yet. It’s original stuff again. www.geocities.com/non_existence_metal/


October 31

“No Survivors”

2004 Thrash Corner Records, Battlezone Records

The new October 31’s album is a must for all fans of classical Metal. No matter if you prefer NWOBHM, Thrash Metal or Power Metal, you will probably like energetic riffing of King Fowley’s band. The songs on “No Survivors” are catchy but it doesn’t mean that they were composed to please the masses. October 31 ignores the trends. That’s the common feature with another classical Fowley’s band – Deceased. Such approach is the only right way to musical success. Just listen to “Powerhouse” or the title track – their dynamic riffs and fast drumming are great examples how uncompromising traditional Heavy Metal should be and at the same time both songs present the top class musicianship. Of course, October 31 doesn’t pretend to be the most violent band on Earth, but such dynamic music will please even Death Metal fans although “No Survivors” has nothing in common with the most brutal of Metal styles. But not only straightforward October 31’s songs are worth complimenting. Also slow and mid-paced ones like “What Waits Beyond” or monumental, epic, and majestic “Misfortune” are very good. Their structures are very classically oriented. Maybe that’s prosaic conclusion but the most typical Metal scheme: verse/chorus/verse/chorus/solo/verse/chorus, is sometimes much better than ultra complicated compositions with hundreds tempo changes. Well-organized simplicity is very effective when the bands manage to compose memorable riffs. That’s one of the reasons why I admire first Overkill’s albums. When I heard October 31’s version of “Wrecking Crew”, I felt like I was feeling in the 80’s when I heard this great song first time, of course on Overkill’s album. That’s great composition. But it did not overshadow October 31’s original tunes what should explain you how good these originals are.


Plague of Sheol

“Spoken into Existence”

2005, self-released

Plague of Sheol proves very quickly that is talented band. The opening track “Prelude: Decent unto Battle” is good instrumental composition with interesting mid-paced riffing. These riffs suggest that California’s band is a representative of Melodic Death Metal. The next tracks confirm such supposition but my typical accusations formulated when I review Melodic Death Metal bands don’t fit this time. Plague of Sheol doesn’t forget that Death Metal cannot be too commercial. That’s why melodic riffs are also aggressive. Such catchiness isn’t a crime. It’s a virtue when the band combines catchy riffs, violent drumming, and raw vocals. Such combination has the best results in “Existence Fulfilled” and “A Distant Horizon Depart” – the fastest and my favorite compositions. Respectable technical skills of Plague of Sheol’s members found a right expression because of a good songwriting. Good production is a solid foundation of very professional material. http://www.myspace.com/plagueofsheol,www.plagueofsheol.tk


Rellik

"Heritage of Abomination"

2005, United Guttural Records

Rellik is a good example of a band that records better and better materials, strengthening consequently its position in the underground. I'm not surprised that the quartet from Illinois signed a deal with United Guttural. Independent record labels had to notice finally that there is such talented band. "Heritage of Abomination" is a continuation of style known from band's previous effort “Blessed by the Gods with Fire”. That's furious and fast blackened Death Metal, well-composed and well-executed. Such violent approach justifies my will to compare Rellik to Hate Eternal, Krisiun or Nile, so the bands that belong to the extreme leaders of the genre. Rellik doesn't want to imitate their style and listening to "Satiated with the Blood of the Conquered", "The Kingdom Crushed", "Exhume the Ancient Wargods" as well as other tracks from this brutal release, I must say that they're successful. www.rellik.cc



Rotting Stiffs

“Decomposing”

2003, self-released

Rotting Stiffs plays intense, technical Grind/Death. The compositions from “Decomposing” are short what reminds of the old good Grind-core school. On the other hand, the track structures are more complicated than on the classical Napalm Death and Terrorizer’s albums. The new Grind/Death meets the old influences: such combination will please many fans of fast and at the same time technical music. To some degree, such style reminds me of Cephalic Carnage but I can’t say that it’s a very precise comparison. Rotting Stiffs seem to have the roots also in Punk and Hard-core what diversifies the material. It’s relatively varied music also because of frequent tempo changes. Fast drumming plays very important role but slow parts are in many compositions. California’s musicians, who started playing together in 1997, are really good band. www.rottingstiffs.com


Sinai Beach

“Immersed”

2005, Victory Records

Reading Sinai Beach’s promotional materials prepared by Victory Records, I remembered first of all that California’s band is inspired by Pantera, Danzig, Meshuggah and Slayer. Such combination was promising. I expected intense material in mid-paced tempo, with some melodic, catchy riffs. And I got what I had wanted. “Immersed” is good Metalcore album. While many Metalcore artists choose a commercial direction for their music, Sinai Beach presents more uncompromising approach. The catchiest element of their music is one of the vocals. The leading voice is harsh, distorted, and even Death Metal-oriented. But Sinai Beach has also additional clean vocals and they - inspired by Danzig - make the material very melodic at times. Although I usually criticize such combinations of brutal and soft vocals, on “Immersed” it works well. I like also the riffing. Pantera and Meshuggah are definitely good comparisons. Slayer’s influence isn’t as audible but at least few times, when Sinai Beach speeds up (like in “Necessary Bloodshed” and “Hell Blaze”), you will hear some riffs and drumming that will remind you of the Thrash Metal giants. The good studio, Trax East in New Jersey, and matured producer, Eric Rachel (Dillinger Escape Plan, God Forbid, Atreyu) helped the band to achieve good, metallic sound. On “Immersed” I haven’t heard any astonishing, outstanding compositions but these twelve tracks are really good. Although my attitude towards modern Metalcore is ambivalent, such releases force me to think that this genre is worth attentive and many-sided analysis. www.victoryrecords.com



Skodag

“Demo 2004”

If you’re wondering which of new NY’s Death/Grind bands is the most talented, one of your options should be Skodag. Formed in late 2003, it needed only a year to record in December 2004 three great tracks. However, you can’t be surprised that Skodag managed to prove its talent so quickly. It’s not a group of the newcomers. It’s group of the heroes of Rochester’s underground, known very well from Kalibas (as well as from Psyopus and Texan Kill The Client if we consider earlier commitments). When the demise of Kalibas in August 2004 ended the career of one of the best Willowtip’s artist, we had a serious reason to worry. But taking into consideration how good band is Skodag, one can say that the lack of Kalibas had very good consequences. Like many bands from Rochester’s area, Skodag blends perfectly the fury of Grind-core and the brutality of Death Metal, making such mixture also complex and technical. I’m impressed that Skodag presented so many great riffs on the demo that lasts only 9 minutes. It’s also very well controlled and intense music that suggests that Skodag is able to record a brilliant full-length album. A good recording deal shouldn’t be a problem for them. When I listened to this demo first time, I had one very clear comparison: Napalm Death and their “Mass Appeal Madness” EP. I don’t want to say that Skodag uses any of Napalm Death’s ideas. It’s different style. But both materials have almost exactly the same playing time: 8:54 Napalm Death and 8:52 Skodag, and first of all many similar features (like impressive intensity, the top class riffing, great tempo changes) that’s why when I wanted to compare Skodag to some great releases from the past to underline the exceptional quality of Rochester’s band, “Mass Appeal Madness” came to my mind at once. http://skodag.tropid.com


Souless

“In Darkness We Will Remain”

Souless continues great California’s traditions of fast and violent Death Metal rooted in the most glorious heritage of Death Metal scene from late 80’s and early 90’s. Listening to “In Darkness We Will Remain” such bands come to mind like Morbid Angel, Drawn & Quartered, Sadistic Intent, Coffin Texts, Immolation, Incantation... Souless style isn’t their copy but definitely those bands can be good comparisons since we speak here of talented, brutal and uncompromising group, which chose the same way of musical destruction like those well known artists. Shredding riffs and dynamic drumming are the features which always appeal to Death Metal maniacs. Having them as well as writing good compositions, Souless has chances to impress many fans of brutal music. www.souless.com


The Cauterized

“Symphonies of Iniquity”

2004, self-released

I like such openers. “The Impaler” attacks at once. Fast drumming, deep vocals, and the wall of brutal riffs explain very quickly that we listen to Death Metal band, a good Death Metal band. In “Suicide #9” after fast beginning The Cauterized slows down in the middle of the track and proves that they are good also at mid-paced playing, based on rhythmic riffs. But the last minute of the track is again a fast and violent display of power. Such tempo changes mean good songwriting. The next track is different. Such titles as “Witch Hammer” suggest that a listener will hear a musical slaughter but the third track is less brutal, first of all slower, except of one short speedup in the middle. It is solid track but I prefer previous ones because they are more dynamic and heavier. The last composition, “Corporate Meatgrinder”, is fast song but also more melodic. I would even say that it’s surprisingly melodic and rooted in Hardcore/Speed/Thrash Metal traditions although it is still Death Metal. Such simple description of demo can have only one conclusion. The Cauterized is good band with interesting future. Obviously, since California has huge Death/Black/ Thrash Metal scene, the quintet has to work hard to promote “Symphonies of Iniquity” and the next materials. I can only envy Death Metal fans from California that they have so many talented bands there, including The Cauterized. www.thecauterized.com



The Dying Light

“The Killing Plan”

2005, the sampler with tracks from the upcoming new album

The Dying Light’s debut album “Survival Guide to the Apocalypse” was one of the best releases of 2002 that’s why I waited for the follow-up with curiosity and I had very big expectations. NJ’s band recorded a new album at Erik Rutan’s Mana Studios. The promo presents only two tracks from the upcoming release but I can already tell you that The Dying Light didn’t disappoint. The band’s style has changed a bit at least if “The Killing Plan” and “Freezing the Spirit” are most typical compositions for the new album. They’re slower than material from “Survival Guide to the Apocalypse” and first of all more varied. Obviously, they have very fast and violent parts characteristic for the debut CD, but more technical approach is well audible, especially in slow and mid-paced parts. Very good riffing and intelligent tempo changes are reasons to praise the songwriting. Very precise work of all instruments emphasizes The Dying Light’s technical skills. The vocals are modified: they’re a bit deeper and have more varied modulation. All these changes improved The Dying Light’s style. If other tracks from “The Killing Plan” have the same features, we should expect a brilliant album.


Terror Ascends

“Open Your Eyes”

2005, self-released

Terror Ascends new material is their best material to date. This band has always played a mix of Death Metal and Black Metal. Sometimes Death Metal influences were stronger, sometimes Black Metal ones played more significant role. I was very pleased when Death Metal side of their material was dominant. That’s why the two new compositions are in my opinion the best direction for Terror Ascends musical evolution. They are a bit Morbid Angel-oriented.First of all they have some very good shredding riffs. They remind me of old Exmortis and old Acheron as well. Exmortis comes to my mind when Terror Ascends plays fast. When they slow down, old Acheron and Morbid Angel are better comparisons in my opinion. Anyway, Terror Ascends songwriting is currently very strong. I have impression too that the band improved technical skills. I'm glad to hear such progression. It's a good moment to think about a full-length album.www.terrorascends.com



Through The Discipline

“Art of Survival”

2004, Jailhouse Records

NY’s Metal-core band becomes more and more prominent representative of the genre. Through The Discipline’s materials aren’t the hits from Billboard charts, but the good style of self-released albums persuaded Jailhouse Records that this band was worth signing and better promotion. Although I labeled Through the Discipline in the first sentence of the review, that’s not so clear, how to define their music. Metal-core isn’t bad label, but if you called Through The Discipline Thrash Metal band or Death-core band, you wouldn’t make a big mistake. NY’s quintet uses influences from all of those genres. The mixture is competent. Playing the music that isn’t particularly brutal or aggressive, Through the Discipline concentrates on writing melodic, catchy and technical riffs. I think that “Art of Survival” has good riffing and that’s the biggest advantage of the album. I prefer fastest riffs that remind me of late Death. Mid-paced parts aren’t bad at all too although they’re less dynamic. When I reviewed Through the Discipline’s “Demo 2003” I compared it to Testament and The Haunted. For Through The Discipline continues the old style, I could repeat those comparisons although frankly I’m not so convinced now if I should mention The Haunted. But Testament, especially from “Low” is still a good comparison. Good instrumental skills of the musicians are another Through The Discipline’s advantage. As you can see, they have a lot to offer. www.throughthediscipline.com


Vicious Circle

"The Art of Agony"

2004, Neoblast Records

Vicious Circle releases new materials very rarely. Their debut CD "Cryptic Void" was released by JL America in 1993. For the second CD, “Live Long And Suffer”, with 4 new tracks, we had to wait 4 years. The next new material was recorded in 2004. As you can see, Vicious Circle's process of songwriting and recording is relatively slow. However, its results are astonishing. "The Art of Agony" is a masterpiece. That's the simplest and most expressive conclusion I could formulate when I had heard this album. Vicious Circle composed truly impressive material, aggressive and very technical. I've always liked bands like Atheist, Sadus or Cynic that were proving that Death Metal is not only brutal form of music but also that it can be very challenging taking into consideration the complexity of the riffs or track structures. Vicious Circle goes the same way, not repeating the old well-known schemes but creating original ones. Precise and complex riffing is band’s trademark. Great track-structures belong to the best ones I heard in years. It’s fantastic exhibition of unique talent. http://www.viciouscircle.tv/


Warhorde

“Blood Filth Chaos”

2004, demo 

New York’s one man project, the creation of Paul Holmes, plays old school Thrash/Black Metal. It means that the track-structures and riffs are relatively simple and the tempos are usually fast although not as fast to hear blast beats. Such approach was very popular in the 80’s when we heard first combinations of Black Metal and Thrash Metal. Warhorde adopts those old formulas pretty well. Listening to “Blood Filth Chaos” I’m comparing it with early Necrophagia’s recordings. That’s definitely a good direction. It’s underground release that’s why the production is a bit raw. However, old school Thrash/Black doesn’t need brilliant sound to have dark mood, which is typical for Warhorde’s material. The demo is short and very coherent. That’s not a problem, rather an advantage, but I wonder if Warhorde’s longer, full-length material should be a bit more varied. Perhaps recording a full-length album, Warhorde should add some new elements, diversifying the riffs and the tempos. A brilliant example of such evolution is Necrophagia’s “Seasons of the Dead”. I think that “Blood Filth Chaos” is a sign that Paul Holmes will manage to compose and record a solid album. Especially “Fires of Hell” and “Blood Oath” are promising compositions. And one big surprise: on the demo you will hear also Ted Nugent’s cover, in interesting interpretation. http://www.geocities.com/warhorde666/