REVIEW: CRIMINAL – Akelarre

 

CRIMINAL – Akelarre

Massacre Records

"Akelarre," released via Massacre Records, is the seventh studio album from CRIMINAL, a band with a long and established history in the metal scene. Formed in 1991, they are undoubtedly one of the oldest metal acts in Chile, a testament to their enduring presence. The band's consistent output over decades speaks to their dedication and evolution within the genre.

A significant point in CRIMINAL's trajectory was the relocation of key members to the UK in 2001. Notably, this move appears to have had no discernible impact on their distinctive sound or artistic direction. They continue to deliver a potent mixture of thrash metal and melodic death metal, a formula they have refined over the years. This core sound is enriched with modern touches that contribute to a tighter and heavier overall production, demonstrating their ability to adapt without compromising their identity.

The compositions on "Akelarre" highlight a band comprised of not only skilled musicians but also adept songwriters. CRIMINAL expertly marries the raw extremity and ferocity inherent in death/thrash metal with their technical proficiency and a keen sense of melody. The album features a stable and powerful rhythm section, with particularly stunning drum work. Furthermore, the inclusion of intricate and well-crafted guitar solos adds significant depth and excitement to the tracks. The vocals are delivered with an edgy intensity, primarily exhibiting a thrash character, yet effectively incorporating death metal growls to round out their sonic assault.

In conclusion, "Akelarre" stands as a fine example of technical and catchy death/thrash metal. It showcases CRIMINAL's continued ability to produce brutal yet addictive songs, affirming their position as a significant force within the metal landscape. The album effectively demonstrates their capacity to blend aggression with musical complexity, offering a compelling listening experience for fans of the genre.

Christine  Parastatidou