REVIEW: SENSE OF FEAR – Infernal Decay

 

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