REVIEW: EVERDYING - Dimensions of Mortal Frailty

 

EVERDYING - Dimensions of Mortal Frailty

Independent

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What an impressive release by Johnny Dove's one-man-band, featuring some talented guest musicians as well! This album delivers intense fury with screaming vocals transitioning seamlessly into death metal bellows. I stumbled upon this LP after giving it a listen, and it certainly did not disappoint. While Dove's discography may not be extensive, each album released thus far has demonstrated solid quality. The guitars, albeit complex with distortion prevalent throughout, occasionally offer brief moments of clean tones on select tracks. It's challenging to pick favorites from such a strong collection of songs, showcasing Dove's intricate influences rooted in melodic death and black metal from his hometown of Chicago.

The album as a whole is a captivating blend of aggression reminiscent of the powerful sound found in In Flames' "The Jester Race," skillfully woven with Dove's own unique style. The vocal trade-offs add an extra layer of intensity, contributing to the album's overall impact.

Despite being released under an independent label, the mixing is commendable. Initially, it may have seemed muddy upon first few listens, but closer inspection revealed the intricacies of each track, whether streamed on Spotify or listened to via the CD purchased from Johnny's Bandcamp page.

Certain tracks distinctly showcase the transition between melodic death and black metal, highlighting Dove's versatility and command over both genres. Although I haven't delved into the lyrics deeply, the album's overall vibe resonates strongly. It's evident that Dove dedicated significant time and effort to crafting each element present on this release.

The wait for this follow-up from their previous release, "Within the Recesses," spanning over six years, has certainly been worth it. While feedback on the earlier release may have been limited, Dove's ability to seamlessly blend influences into his own unique sound is commendable. It's definitely worth giving this album a listen and showing support for Dove as a thriving musician with a wealth of creativity.

Supporting artists like Dove helps keep the music scene alive and vibrant. With this release, he has truly erected a monument of musical prowess that should not be overlooked. You won't regret diving into this musical journey!

Ryan “Death8699” Fanucchi