ALCHERA
– Era (2011)
Bret Hard / Twilight Records
I've just discovered a real treasure in the extreme
metal scene, and this is a band I'm going to keep coming back to whenever I
need my mind blown away! ALCHERA is a name every death metal maniac should be
acquainted with, as this German band delivers a powerful and uncompromising
blend of brutality, melody and technical craftsmanship. Their music sweeps you
away with razor-sharp riffs, a concrete rhythm section and compositions that
combine sheer aggression with a remarkable sense of atmosphere.
Formed in 1997, ALCHERA released their debut album in
2003, only to return with their sophomore effort approximately eight years
later. Why such a talented band has taken so long to deliver a follow-up
remains a mystery to me, but, as we Greeks say, better late than never! Era is
certainly an album worth keeping close.
The musicianship on display is impressive, with a
sound that is sharp, raw and brutal without sacrificing melody or intricate
guitar work. The compositions are further enhanced by the band's diversity and
their ability to incorporate different influences without losing sight of their
death metal foundations. Both the brutal and melodic sides of the genre are
well represented, while black metal touches, a cold, epic atmosphere and even
some classic heavy metal riffs and passages add further depth to the material.
The combination of brutal and higher-pitched vocals, a
three-guitar attack and a pounding rhythm section gives the songs considerable
weight and ferocity. At the same time, the guitar arrangements provide enough
variety to prevent the album from becoming one-dimensional, while the very good
production allows the different elements to work effectively together.
All in all, Era is a strong and varied death metal
release that balances aggression, melody and atmosphere with confidence.
ALCHERA have delivered an album that deserves to be discovered by fans of
extreme metal, and this is definitely one you don't want to miss!
Christine Parastatidou
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