SENSE
OF FEAR – Infernal Decay
Sleaszy Rider Records
Sense of Fear return after eight years with
"Infernal Decay," an album that proves how persistence, maturity, and
a clear artistic identity can lead to a result that is robust and absolutely
sincere. Hailing from Kozani and with a history dating back to the late
'90s—initially as Holy Prophecy and later in their current form—the band has
learned to operate methodically, without haste or unnecessary moves. Their
discography is small but carefully crafted, and "Infernal Decay"
arrives as their most complete moment to date.
From the very first minutes, it becomes clear that the
album's sound is firmly rooted in '90s U.S. power metal, featuring strong
thrash elements and a modern production that provides both volume and clarity.
Influences from Iced Earth, Metal Church, and Vicious Rumors are evident, as
are the groovier and more technical nuances reminiscent of Eidolon and
Nevermore. Meanwhile, in the more classic heavy metal moments, traces of Iron
Maiden and Jugulator-era Judas Priest emerge, yet without any sense of
imitation or reproduction. Sense of Fear use these references as a foundation,
not a crutch, building upon them a sound that possesses its own personality and
cohesion.
The vocals move within a range that combines the drama
of Matt Barlow with the heroic power metal timbre of early Italian Drakkar. The
performance is solid, with a proper balance between melodic and aggressive
elements, contributing decisively to the dark, epic atmosphere of the record.
The band demonstrates compositional maturity, avoiding excesses and choosing
instead to serve the essence of the music. This is clearly seen in the album’s
ten-minute track, which is a true achievement: it evolves naturally, maintains
unwavering interest, and builds an epic narrative without becoming tiring or
appearing pretentious. It is one of those compositions that require experience,
self-awareness, and clear artistic intent.
The release is accompanied by significant details that
heighten interest: two singles with video clips (“Empathy to Darkness” and
“Cerberus”) preceded the album, while the physical edition includes a hidden
bonus track—a cover of Astarte’s “Ring of Sorrow”—and the remastered
“Retaliation.” Special mention deserves the participation of Sakis Tolis of
Rotting Christ on the track “Labyrinth,” a collaboration that adds depth and
prestige to the final result. Sleaszy Rider Records is also announcing upcoming
concerts and activities for the band, indicating that "Infernal
Decay" is not just a return to discography, but the beginning of a new
creative phase.
Overall, "Infernal Decay" is an album that
justifies the wait. Sense of Fear do not try to impress with pretension or by
replicating their influences. Instead, they present a work that is mature,
sturdy, and entirely personal, balancing between classic heavy/power metal and
more modern thrash and epic shades. With clean production, strong compositions,
and a ten-minute climax that functions as a statement of identity,
"Infernal Decay" constitutes one of the noteworthy Greek metal
releases of 2026 and proof that the band still has much to say.
Nick Parastatidis
