REVIEW: BLACK SABBATH, Live Evil (1982)

 

BLACK SABBATH, Live Evil (1982)

Warner Bros. Records

Ο καλύτερος τρόπος να αποδοθεί ζωντανά μια ολόκληρη εποχή.

Κι αυτή εποχή έληξε άδοξα με το συγκεκριμένο ζωντανά ηχογραφημένο άλμπουμ. Απ' το εκπληκτικό εξωφύλλο με τα κλασσικά τραγούδια τους να έχουν μεταμορφωθεί σε πραγματικά όντα, στο πρώτο επίσημο live (το Live At Last του 1980 δεν θεωρείται από το συγκρότημα επίσημη κυκλοφορία, το έβγαλε ο πρώην παραγωγός τους μέσω Warner) οι τέσσερις συντελεστές Iommi, Butler, Dio, Appice και ο κος Nichols κρυμμένος πίσω απ' τη σκηνή στα πλήκτρα, σε ένα απάνθισμα από το 1970 ως το 1981 των κλασσικών πρωτοπόρων της heavy rock και φυσικά με κάποιες ελλείψεις. Ο Dio δεν είναι Ozzy. Βασικά δεν γίνεται ο Ozzy να γίνει Dio! Μιλάμε για δύο εντελώς διαφορετικούς ερμηνευτές. Όπως και να το δεις το ομονυμο Black Sabbath από το πρώτο τους άλμπουμ είναι η πιο μαύρη, doom, σκοτεινή εκτέλεση του κομματιού ever στο cd αυτό. Το N.I.B. πάλι απ' το πρώτο άλμπουμ από την άλλη, το αποδίδει πολύ κοφτά ο Dio παρομοίως και τα  War Pigs, Children of The Grave. Τώρα αν περιμένετε αξιοκρατικά να γράψω για τα υπόλοιπα κόμματα απ' το Heaven And Hell ή το Mob Rules, άδικος κόπος, δεν περιγράφω άλλο...

English Text:

The most evocative way to resurrect an entire era.

Unfortunately, this era met an inglorious demise with the release of this vividly captured live album. From the striking album cover that transforms their classic tunes into tangible entities to the inaugural official live performance (it's worth noting that the 1980 "Live At Last" isn't officially recognized by the band; it was independently released by their former producer through Warner), the quartet of maestros—namely Iommi, Butler, Dio, Appice—alongside the discreet Mr. Nichols orchestrating from the shadows on the keyboards, embark on a sonic odyssey spanning from 1970 to 1981, encapsulating the essence of the classical trailblazers in heavy rock. Naturally, there are a few notable omissions.

Dio is not Ozzy. To state the obvious, Ozzy cannot morph into Dio! We're dealing with two vocalists who are worlds apart. Regardless of perspective, the eponymous track "Black Sabbath," from their debut album, stands out as the darkest, most doom-laden, and sinister rendition of the piece ever etched onto this CD. On the flip side, Dio carves out a sharply defined rendition of "N.I.B.," also from the debut album, along with masterful executions of "War Pigs" and "Children of The Grave."

If you're anticipating a discerning analysis of the remaining compositions from "Heaven And Hell" or "Mob Rules," I must refrain. Delving further would be an exercise in futility; there's no need to elaborate any further.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: FIREWIND, Firewind (2020)

 

FIREWIND, Firewind (2020)

AFM Records

Ήρθαν και θα μείνουν.

Οι Firewind από τους επαναθεμελιωτες του ευρωπαϊκού Power Metal, πλέον γιόρτασαν 20 χρόνια δισκογραφικής ζωής. Η τωρινή σύνθεση βρίσκει τον Gus G. (Κώστας Καραμητρουδης) που ξεκίνησε το συγκρότημα, τους Petros Christo μπάσο, Johan Nunez (πρώην Kamelot) ντραμς και τον  ασπρομαλη μπροστάρη  Herbie Langhans (πρώην Avantasia, Voodoo Circle). Το ομώνυμο τους CD, κυκλοφορία που λόγω της αναστάτωσης με τον Covid, δεν πήραμε εγκαίρως χαμπάρι τους βρίσκει λοιπόν σαν τετράδα, ακριβώς όπως όταν ξεκίνησαν. Απ'εδώ τα Welcome To The Empire, Devour, Rising Fire, Break Away, Orbitual Sunrise, Overdrive και Kill The Pain αποτελούν τις καλύτερες στιγμές.

English Text:

They've arrived and are here to stay. Firewind, trailblazers of European Power Metal, recently celebrated two decades in the music scene. The current lineup, led by founder Gus G. (Kostas Karamitroudis), includes Petros Christo on bass, Johan Nunez (formerly of Kamelot) on drums, and the dynamic frontman Herbie Langhans (formerly associated with Avantasia, Voodoo Circle). Despite the disruptions caused by Covid, their latest self-titled album, which we regrettably overlooked at the time, showcases the band as a potent quartet, reminiscent of their humble beginnings. Tracks like 'Welcome To The Empire,' 'Devour,' 'Rising Fire,' 'Break Away,' 'Orbitual Sunrise,' 'Overdrive,' and 'Kill The Pain' shine as the standout moments of this musical journey.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

GRAYWITCH "God of War" single out now by Sleaszy Rider

 

In anticipation of 2024, GRAYWITCH has unveiled "God of War," the lead single from their upcoming album, "Children of Gods," set to release on February 2, 2024, through Sleaszy Rider SRL. Produced at Infected Studios in Thessaloniki, Greece, by George Stournaras, the track features guest musicians Dan Baune and Jimmy “Sinner” Tairidis on guitar solos. "God of War" marks the debut of George Papadopoulos as Graywitch's new vocalist, showcasing intricate time signatures, a bold structure, impressive guitar work, and memorable choruses. The lyrics draw inspiration from Greek history and mythology.

THE SILENT RAGE unveils 'Crows Fly Back' music video

 

As the year draws to a close, THE SILENT RAGE are thrilled to unveil the concluding chapter of their album 'Nuances Of Life' with the release of the music video for 'Crows Fly Back.' Filmed at Hologram Studios in Athens, directed by Christos Doulgerakis (Badd Kharma, W.E.B.), and featuring cinematography by Dimitris Marini, this production is brought to you by The Storyteller Studio, with makeup by Marigianna Noe.

CATATUMBO Drops New EP

 

The Spanish Stoner Metal band CATATUMBO is gearing up for the release of their new self-titled EP, recorded, mixed, and mastered at "Moontower Studios" by Javi Flz. Formed in 2017 in Barcelona, Catalonia, by Alex Doménech (Guitars), Stefano Cibien (Guitars), and Jesus Pereira (Drums), the band welcomed René Caballero (Vocals) and Nil Gómez (Bass) in 2022, finalizing their current lineup.

JENNER brand new video-clip online!!

 

Serbian Heavy/Speed/Thrash band JENNER have just launched a lyric-video, of the song "Never Say Die", as a 3rd advance single from their 2nd album entitled "Prove Them Wrong", which will be released in January 24th, 2024 through Fighter Records.

REVIEW: TOMB MOLD - The Enduring Spirit

 

TOMB MOLD - The Enduring Spirit

20 Buck Spin

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Canadian giants have delivered another stellar death metal release, setting themselves apart from competitors like Cryptopsy. While Tomb Mold's tempo is notably slower, they firmly hold their ground in the death metal genre, leaning towards the brutal end with intense vocals and guitar work.

Originality shines through in their riffs, with clean segments enhancing the overall quality, especially in the outro. The sound quality is impressive, featuring well-executed mixing and production. Breaks from heavy guitar riffs provide a dynamic touch, ensuring the album isn't relentlessly brutal but skillfully blends heavy and clean elements.

The band's versatility is evident as they explore melodic and fast-paced guitar sections while staying true to the death metal label. This ability to cover various metal facets keeps the listening experience ever-changing and intellectually stimulating.

Considered one of the standout releases of 2023, the album has achieved chart-topping success, despite some mixed reviews. Personally, I rank it highly and have supported the band by purchasing the CD. The incorporation of clean guitars, though unusual for a death metal band, adds a unique touch reminiscent of older Opeth, yet distinctly their own with hoarse vocals and predominantly death metal guitars.

Technical proficiency is commendable, with flawless leads complementing the music. This release offers a diverse array of compelling guitar licks and brutal vocals, creating an engaging and fluctuating listening experience. The band's unpredictable style keeps the audience guessing, making it a must-have for fans of the genre.

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi

REVIEW:IMMORTAL, At The Heart Of Winter (1999)

 

IMMORTAL, At The Heart Of Winter (1999)

Osmose Productions

Πάγος, βόρειο Σέλας και corpsepaint!

Οι τρεις Νορβηγοί αυτοί, τους οποίους έμαθα στο Rockwave Festival το καλοκαίρι του '99 όταν το ασπρόμαυρο corpsepaint τους έλιωσε κάτω από τον καυτό απογευματινό ήλιο, είναι περιπτωσαρα! Ανοίκουν στο True Norwegian Black Metal κίνημα των αρχών του 1990 σαν τους Mayhem, Emperor, Enslaved, Satyricon, Darkrthrone κ.α. Αυτό είναι το τέταρτο τους πλήρες άλμπουμ, το πρώτο με αυτό το απλό metal λογότυπο που έχει ο φοβερός πίνακας του εξωφύλλου, το πρώτο τους σε πιο Black Thrash ύφος αλλά και το πρώτο τους σαν δίσκος για μένα και την δισκογραφική μου συλλογή. Ανάμεσα σε μίνι άλμπουμ και πλήρες άλμπουμ μια και έχει έξι κομμάτια, αλλά τί κομμάτια! Withstand the Fall of Time, Solarfall, Tragedies Blows at Horizon, Where Dark and Light Don't Differ, At the Heart of Winter και Years of Silent Sorrow.

English Text:

Ice, Northern Lights, and corpsepaint! These Norwegians etched memories at the '99 Rockwave Festival, their black and white corpsepaint melting under the blazing sun. Pioneers in True Norwegian Black Metal with Mayhem, Emperor, and others, their fourth album stands out. Simple metal logo, captivating Black Thrash style— a prized addition to my collection. With six tracks including standout pieces like 'Withstand the Fall of Time,' 'Solarfall,' and 'Years of Silent Sorrow,' it's a gem in both quality and quantity.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW:AXEL RUDI PELL, Between The Walls (1994)

 

AXEL RUDI PELL, Between The Walls (1994)

Steamhammer

Δεν είναι τρεις, ένας είναι....

Ο Pell είναι ο Ritchie Blackmore της γερμανικής Power Metal/Swords & Dragons σκηνής. Κιθαριστικά τραχύς και συχνά πολύ γρήγορος "riffoλογος"! Αυτό είναι το τέταρτο άλμπουμ που φέρει το όνομα του και μαζί του έχουμε τον Jeff Scott Soto (Malmsteen, Talisman) στη φωνή, τον γυρολόγο ντράμερ Jorg Michael (Rage, Grave Digger, Running Wild, Stratovarious) σαν βασικά αστέρια της συνεργασίας. Και τί άλμπουμ! Talk of the Guns, Warrior, Cry Of the Gypsy (Σέβομαι, ύμνος!!!), το ανατολίτικο Casbah, η διασκευή στο Wishing Well των Free (το έχουν πιάσει καλύτερα μάλλον οι Savatage στο Fight For The Rock), Between the Walls, Desert Fire... Τι δισκαρα!

English Text:

It's not three; it's just one...

Pell epitomizes the Ritchie Blackmore of the German Power Metal/Swords & Dragons scene—his guitar prowess is rugged, and his 'riffology' is lightning-fast! This marks his fourth eponymous album, featuring the powerhouse vocals of Jeff Scott Soto (Malmsteen, Talisman) and the globally acclaimed drummer Jorg Michael (Rage, Grave Digger, Running Wild, Stratovarius) as the central figures in this collaboration. And what an album it is! From the dynamic energy of Talk of the Guns, the warrior spirit in Warrior, the anthemic Cry Of the Gypsy (a true homage!), to the exotic tones of Casbah, the reinterpretation of Free's Wishing Well (arguably perfected by Savatage in Fight For The Rock), the sonic journey through Between the Walls, and the intense Desert Fire... it's an absolute masterpiece!

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: DISTORTED REFLECTION - Doom Rules Eternally

 

DISTORTED REFLECTION - Doom Rules Eternally

Iron Shield Records

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After contributing to the creation of four powerful and distinctive power-doom albums with SORROWS PATH, a renowned Greek metal band, co-founder and guitarist Kostas Salomidis embarked on a new chapter in his musical journey. In a surprising turn of events, Kostas decided to part ways with Sorrows Path just as they were gearing up for their fifth album. Undeterred by the departure, Kostas took the opportunity to actualize his own unique doom vision. In August 2022, he unveiled his brainchild, DISTORTED REFLECTION, a band that not only mirrors his artistic evolution but also amplifies the heaviness of his musical expression. Interestingly, the roots of DISTORTED REFLECTION trace back to 1993 when Kostas proposed two band names to Takis Drakopoulos, the founder of SORROWS PATH – "Sorrow’s Path" and "Distorted Reflection." While Takis opted for the former, the latter has become Kostas’ musical odyssey. Stepping into uncharted territory, Kostas will assume vocal duties for the first time, adding a new dimension to his artistic repertoire. In his recent undertaking, Kostas is supported by Stelios Pavlou on drums and Vangelis Yalamas on bass, synth, and backing vocals.

DISTORTED REFLECTION, as a band, is characterized by a compelling sonic landscape rooted in the essence of doom metal. Their music weaves together potent heavy riffs with intricate melodies, creating a dynamic fusion that resonates with the essence of classic heavy metal. A standout facet of their sound is the incorporation of brutal vocals, prominently featured in tracks like "Dark Mermaid," injecting a raw intensity into their compositions. What sets DISTORTED REFLECTION apart is their adept use of keyboards, seamlessly integrated into the band's overall sound. This unique touch not only complements but enhances the musical tapestry, offering something original, and even rare within the broader spectrum of their genre. In essence, DISTORTED REFLECTION manifests a distinctive sonic identity that transcends conventional boundaries, making them a noteworthy presence in the realm of doom metal.

Within the shadowed verses of its lyrics, embracing a realm of darkness and introversion, the entire atmosphere of the album from DISTORTED REFLECTION exhales a paradoxical essence—simultaneously epic and lyrical. The musical tapestry woven by this enigmatic band transcends the conventional boundaries of despair, infusing a profound sense of grandeur into tales of the damned soul. It challenges preconceptions, questioning who dictates that such narratives cannot be epic in their scope. DISTORTED REFLECTION beckons listeners into a realm where the introspective and the epic converge, creating a captivating sonic landscape that lingers, inviting contemplation of the boundless nuances within the human experience.

Adding an intriguing layer to this release, DISTORTED REFLECTION presents captivating guest appearances that elevate the musical journey. Giannis Drolapas graces the album with a mesmerizing guitar solo on "The Eternal Gate," infusing it with a distinctive flair. The track "Cassandra" takes on a new dimension with a compelling guitar solo by Ross Friedman, offering a unique sonic experience. Nicholas Leptos lends his powerful vocals to "Mr. Snake," contributing an additional layer of intensity and diversity. These guest appearances not only showcase the collaborative spirit but also enrich the overall tapestry of the album, making it a truly captivating and multifaceted musical endeavor.

An inherently captivating and imaginative release, this album explores a fascinating spectrum within its musical genre, maintaining the listener's interest from start to finish. The infusion of variety deftly pushes the boundaries, creating an experience that transcends conventional norms. Notably, even those inclined towards the epic and heavy metal sound will find this release irresistibly attractive. It stands as a testament to the band's ability to weave a compelling narrative within the intricate tapestry of their music, making it a noteworthy and appealing addition to the genre.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

Slovenian Groove/Sludge Metal Trio Protype5 Unleashes New EP "Upcoming Bites"

 

Slovenian groove/sludge metal trio Protype5 has unleashed their latest EP, "Upcoming Bites." Recorded at P.L.C. Mixing Studios and masterfully mixed and mastered by Matej Srebrnič, the EP showcases the band's signature blend of heavy, groovy riffs and crushing rhythms.

Formed in 2017 in Tolmin, Slovenia, Protype5 is the brainchild of guitarists and vocalists Iztok and Gregor, who were inspired by the likes of High on Fire, Crowbar, Black Sabbath, and Pantera. After some lineup changes, bassist Blaž joined the band, solidifying their current form.

With "Upcoming Bites," Protype5 delivers a potent sonic assault that will appeal to fans of heavy, down-tuned grooves and aggressive vocals. The EP is a testament to the band's unwavering dedication to creating music that resonates with their audience.

Stream "Upcoming Bites" on your favorite platforms and experience the heavy, groovy power of Protype5.

ARCANE TALES: Explore 'The Dark Portals Of Agony' Lyric Video!

 

Introducing the captivating track "The Dark Portals Of Agony," a mesmerizing preview from the highly anticipated album "Until Where The Northern Lights Reign." Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds set to release on January 29, 2024, courtesy of Broken Bones Promotion. Save the date for an unforgettable musical journey!

REVIEW: URIAH HEEP, Head First (1983)

 

URIAH HEEP, Head First (1983)

Bronze

Ωριμότητα, ανωριμότητα; Έλα ντε;

Οι θρυλικοί U.H. βάρεσαν λήξη το 1981 μετά το τουλάχιστον περίεργο (όχι κι εντελώς φόλα) Conquest. Ο Mick Box απέμεινε μόνος κι έρημος και ο έτερος αρχικός συντελεστής ο Ken Hensley εγκατέλειψε από νωρίς. Έτσι ξαφνικά το 1982 σκάει ένα νέο συγκρότημα με τον Box και τον Kerslake απ' την αρχική μπάντα και βγάζει το σχεδόν heavy metal άλμπουμ Abominog, προσαρμοσμένο στη δεκαετία του 80 σε τέτοιο βαθμό που σε τίποτα δε θυμίζει τους παλιούς Heep. Ενα χρόνο μετά το Head First προσπαθεί να θυμίσει τις rock εποχές της χρυσής δεκαετίας 1970-1980. Ίσως λίγο A.O.R. πλέον όσο και το Difficult To Cure των νέων Rainbow του Joe Lynn Turner. Ο Peter Goalby συνεχίζει στο μικρόφωνο μετά το Abominog, o Lee Kerslake από τα παλιά πίσω από τα κρουστά και ο Bob Daisley στο μπάσο με τον John Sinclair στα πλήκτρα να προσπαθεί να μπει στη θέση του Hensley όσο καλύτερα μπορούσε. The Other Side Of Midnight, Stay On Top, Lonely Nights, Love Is Blind...

English Text:

Maturity, immaturity—really? The epic of U.H. reached its zenith in 1981 with the mysterious, if not entirely futile, "Conquest." Left standing alone and forsaken, Mick Box faced an unforeseen twist in 1982 as the original collaborator, Ken Hensley, departed early. From this upheaval, a new ensemble emerged, featuring Box and Kerslake from the initial band, delivering the near heavy metal masterpiece "Abominog." This album, finely tuned to the 1980s, marked a departure so profound that it bore little resemblance to the classic Heep sound.

A year later, with "Head First," the attempt was made to revisit the rock heydays of the golden era spanning 1970-1980. It leaned towards the A.O.R. spectrum, akin to the transformation witnessed in Joe Lynn Turner's "Difficult To Cure" with the revived Rainbow. Peter Goalby persisted at the microphone post-"Abominog," while Lee Kerslake, a relic from the past, reclaimed his position behind the drum kit. Bob Daisley, on bass, joined forces with John Sinclair on keyboards, striving to fill Hensley's shoes with commendable effort. Tracks like "The Other Side Of Midnight," "Stay On Top," "Lonely Nights," and "Love Is Blind" encapsulated this era of transition and musical exploration.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: OBITUARY, Cause Of Death (1990)

 

OBITUARY, Cause Of Death (1990)

Roadracer Records

Θα προβούν σε ωμότητες....

Στο δεύτερο τους άλμπουμ που έθεσε την πεπατημένη του το εστί Death Metal, οι πέντε μαλιαδες από τη Florida σκορπάνε πόνο με άνεση. Ο άρτι απολυθείς από τους Death ο πολύς James Murphy αναλαμβάνει τη μία κιθάρα, παρέα στον Trevor Peres. O John Tardy βρυχάται στο άτυχο μικρόφωνο ο έτερος της οικογένειας Donald Tardy περιποιείται τα κρουστά και ο κος Frank Watkins το μπάσο. Άλλοτε βασανιστικά αργή κι άλλοτε εντελώς thrash, η μουσική τους δεν είναι για ευαίσθητες καρδιές. Ιδιαίτερα η διασκευή στο   Circle of the Tyrants των Ελβετών Θεών Celtic Frost είναι κραχτης για το άλμπουμ. Μαζί οι ματωμένοι ύμνοι Infected, Body Bag, Chopped in Half, Find the Arise, Cause of Death σκορπάνε εφιάλτες και διαμελισμένα σάπια μέλη. Δισκάρα του τρόμου!

English Text:

Diving headlong into unbridled brutality...

In their second album, a defiant departure from the conventional Death Metal norms, the quintet from Florida effortlessly weaves a tapestry of agony. Freshly emancipated from Death, the skilled James Murphy wields one guitar in tandem with Trevor Peres. John Tardy delivers guttural reverberations into the fateful microphone, while the other family stalwart, Donald Tardy, commands the drums, and Mr. Frank Watkins skillfully guides the bass.

Their music, alternating between agonizingly slow and relentless thrash, is not tailored for the faint of heart. A standout moment emerges with their rendition of 'Circle of the Tyrants' by the Swiss maestros Celtic Frost. Simultaneously, the blood-soaked anthems — Infected, Body Bag, Chopped in Half, Find the Arise, Cause of Death — disperse nightmares and dissect decaying limbs. Undoubtedly, a macabre masterpiece!

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: DARKLON - The Redeemer

 

DARKLON - The Redeemer

No Remorse Records

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In 2017, DARKLON emerged onto the music scene with a simple goal: to offer the heavy metal community an unforgettable experience. Their debut album, "Rise from Death," saw the light in 2019 via Eat Metal Records, leaving a lasting impact with its dynamic sound. Fast forward to 2023, DARKLON presented their second work, "The Redeemer," through No Remorse Records, featuring new vocalist Nikos Migus A., known from OMEN and MARAUDER.

"The Redeemer" by DARKLON blends epic and speed metal, providing a captivating journey from start to finish. The band skillfully combines memorable melodies with powerful riffs, creating a sound that captures attention.

Influences from bands like OMEN, JAG PANGER, and SAVAGE GRACE are evident, woven into DARKLON's unique musical fabric. Vocalist Nikos Migus A. adds his own touch, bringing a mix of darkness, epic emotion, and intensity.

The tracks of "The Redeemer" showcase a dynamic and varied sound, transitioning seamlessly from emotional to explosive moments. The album proves to be an interesting addition to the heavy metal world, offering a unique experience for genre enthusiasts.

Overall, "The Redeemer" by DARKLON is a captivating musical journey that maintains interest from start to finish. The band's ability to craft a distinct sound provides a continuous discovery for listeners, making this release a noteworthy addition to the world of heavy metal.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης

REVIEW: CATTLE DECAPITATION - Terrasite

 

CATTLE DECAPITATION - Terrasite

Metal Blade Records

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Resounding with a cacophony that is both defiant and irreverent, Cattle Decapitation's "Terrasite" emerges as an exquisite masterpiece within the metal realm, earning its place among the finest releases of the year, according to my discerning palate. Allow me to delve into the intricacies that render this album exceptional. The vocal narrative unfolds with a dual persona—one voice delivers piercing screams, while the other resonates with a haunting, hoarse quality. This dichotomy breathes life into the album, creating a dynamic tension that becomes the bedrock of its sonic landscape.

Immaculate is an understatement when describing the musical composition, the drum precision, and the overall production quality. The vocals traverse a captivating spectrum, the music perpetuates a relentless brutality, and the entire opus, from its inaugural note to its final crescendo, exists as an everlasting cascade of death metal virtuosity.

The initial hurdle I faced, an initial reluctance toward the vehement screams, metamorphosed into appreciation as I embraced the interplay between the vocal styles. The tempo fluctuations, accompanied by the relentless drumming and inventive guitar riffs, form an enticing and invigorating symphony of chaos.

"Terrasite" marks my inaugural encounter with this prolific band, notwithstanding their extensive discography. A serendipitous discovery on MetalInjection.net's esteemed Best of 2023 list cemented the band's formidable presence in my auditory universe. The tripartite vocal manifestation—screams, hoarseness, and pristine clarity—bestows upon the album the coveted epithet of progressive death metal, a label well earned over its expansive, hour-long journey through musical dimensions.

While the album maintains an unwavering intensity for the most part, it is the magnum opus, "Just Another Body," that beckons the listener into a realm of progressive intricacy, both in vocals and instrumentation. Amidst the undulating rhythms, the album predominantly pulsates with the ferocity characteristic of death metal in its purest, most unbridled form.

The overture sets the stage with a palpable anticipation, a prelude to the ferocious onslaught of riffs and melodies that ensue—practically ear-piercing in their audacity. Each segment of the album is infused with an unyielding intensity, and even in the deliberate deceleration of the outro, the omnipresent force of the music persists. The lead guitar, rhythm section, and the kaleidoscopic vocal palette are executed with finesse, painting a vivid sonic tapestry.

Prepare to be engulfed in an intense maelstrom—an outstanding monument crafted by artisans who seamlessly navigate the transition from death metal to progressive death metal. Beyond their technical prowess, Cattle Decapitation reveals a mastery of songwriting, presenting an original and profoundly talented act that adeptly unleashes a ferocious and unimaginable sonic barrage upon the auditory senses.

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi