The Hideous, The Diabolical, The Obscene and the Serene (Part the Fifth)
Greetings, and welcome to yet another variation on the Abrasive Audio medium hosted by your dark souled degenerate host, namely me, B.
Admittedly, I’m playing catch up. I’ve been absent for a while and it appears Cult is having a hard time juggling adulting duties, the accursed three letter word and numerous other mundane reduces which fill his dull existence. So, I’m here to step in. Now I can only assume that the object of this faction of the AA stable is centered around art, with only a short commentary on the actual audio itself? And now its what I deem it to be, expect silliness, dark humor, grammatical mishaps and an odd naughty word or two and I’ll even toss in a score based on my own enjoyment. Hey, I can get down with this revamped setup. I’ve even finagled a handy-dandy new collage especially to go with this segment. Let’s explore that which is on offer.
Starting with…
Horrifying (Chile) – Dreadful Parasomnia
March 24 (Veins Full of Wrath Productions)
The Art
Now, if you’re anything like me this image is undeniably engrossing, utterly fascinating. Obvious similarities exist to a slew of releases (art wise), chief among them Morbid Angel’s Altars of Madness. Others of similar ilk are swirling in somewhat of a blur motif, caused in all likelihood by the fact that A.o.M was released over thirty-five years ago. For those who weren’t around when this gem dropped, let me tell you it was literally ground-shaking. An album of epic proportions for the genre, and a milestone for an act that only seemed to gain diabolical prowess with maturity. But enough about Azagthoth, Vincent and crew. Let’s get back on track here.
Dreadful Parasomnia boasts a bubble of torment, a tableau of visages encased in a myriad of emotion. Screaming, smirking, smug, horrified and enraged (there’s an album if ever I’ve typed one), there’s a recognizable vibe here for anyone who’s ever unwillingly dated a psychotic. But it doesn’t stop there. For some reason the art also puts me in mind of a melting fella from an underrated film showcasing the wicked talents of Rick Baker. Something about an individual returning from space to find that he’s allergic to the inner lining of his encumbering astronaut suit. For some reason his reaction is akin to cheese on high heat as seen over time in the microwave. Poor chap gets to literally witness the side of his face in close up technicolor as his eyeball plummets from the socket. The colors on display here also remind me of the same movie. Yellows, icky greens, pus, rot, and decay and in all likelihood a splash of vomit. A glorious slab of art that’s certain to grab the attention, as well spawn a few most probably deserved nightmares. Kudos to the hugely talented person responsible.
https://veinsprods.bandcamp.com/album/dreadful-parasomnia
The Audio
In their close to fifteen year existence it is hard to fathom that this is the bands debut (full-length). Harder still with the albums quality in mind. This is damned good audio. The tone, the aura, the overall stunning OSDM motif lends one to believe these guys have done their homework, as well practiced all the moves. There’s diabolical menace on display here (ala The legendary Floridian act mentioned above), as well enough spiderlike fretboard manipulations to incite metaphoric boners (because let’s face it not all DM fans sport strictly stand up to piss chromosomes) within the ‘DM-has-to-be-technical-rather-than-mere-chuggery’ community. However, that’s not all. Dissonance flutters about like a drunken, wounded, butterfly somehow finding its way to the finest locations, the vocals are top-notch, unhurried, somewhat decipherable, and wicked pace variances add to the overall enjoyment. In fact, I’m of the mind that there’s close to nothing about this audio affair that I don’t find impressively enthralling. This reeks of OSDM worship yet stands upon its own stellar merits. So why is it then that this isn’t being mentioned more? Message boards, social media posts, utterances from the elderly and infirm wondering around in a state of drug addled delusion. I have not a clue, but I’m hoping my scribbles might in some small way help to change the situation.
Let it be noted that I appreciate this and reward it with the highest of approval.
100
Torturers Lobby (USA) – Deadened Nerves
June 24 (Caligari Records)
The Art
At first glance one might wonder upon that which stares back at the retinas. A lime green neon image showcasing the remains of something being picked upon by a ravenous bird. The whole appears splattered with a crimson tainted liquid of sorts, likely blood? Is this a still image carried upon a lens which has somehow found itself part of the carnage. Are the remains that of the cameraman squealing in pain as the machine continues to execute its pre-programmed demands? I’m getting Cannibal Holocaust vibes which leaves me silly excited for the mysteries encased within.
https://caligarirecords.bandcamp.com/album/deadened-nerves
The Audio
Not sure what to expect I was greeted with audio that’s swirling and frenzied, sporting a dizzying transformative nature that’s admittedly rather puzzling. Typically when faced with audio such as this I tend to tune out. It’s often just too much to comprehend, warranting several listens to piece together. Thankfully, that’s not the case here. Compositions here bleed and blend a variety of genre influence; blistering speed metal riffs, hard rock hooks, Alternate meanderings, Punk attitude, Crossover vocals, and definite BM sensibilities mesh to leave ones head spinning. And it all somehow works, albeit in a manner that invokes memories of yesteryear, snatches of unforgettable audio, over time compiled etching an individual taste palette.
Impressive to an Nth degree.
96
Desolus (USA) – System Shock
May 24 (Hells Headbangers)
The Art
Well, this image certainly makes one sit up and take note. A blistering landscape, a portal cracking the horizon, a smirking demonic type figure taking the place of the sun, and a gaping fissure in the foreground hemorrhaging zombie demon type entities. This has me seriously pondering upon a slew of past dreams following an intimate evening spent with discounted gas station sushi, hooch and hours spent lazily absorbing decades old sit coms. Paradise, I tell ya.
https://desolus-us.bandcamp.com/album/system-shock
The Audio
Hankering for raw speed, biting vocals and minimal progressive elements? Of course you are. Bored of supposed ‘Thrash’, audio which doesn’t transport you back thirty years to when viciousness and Tuetonic acts ruled the scene? Well, your search has finally produced results worthy of praise.
Desolus do not fuck around (sorry kiddos, I often brandish the dirtiest of potty mouths). Theirs is a style which cuts to the chase and boasts zero fat. Likely how a hybrid of early Slayer, vintage Kreator and classic Sodom might sound, heaped with a generous helping of South American aggression. This seriously could have been released in the late 80’s and raised zero complaints. Look past the fact that this isn’t altogether that inventive, it hits hard and fast to smother all the pleasure sensors in undeniable nostalgia. Prepare the neck for a workout!
91
Chainsword (Poland) – Born Triumphant
February 24 (Independent)
The Art
Famous for showcasing a many (pierced) titted war beast upon the art of their first full-length offering, as well a style arguably influenced by British Dirge legends Bolt Thrower, Chainsword are at it again. The Art here seems pulled back somewhat. An overhead view of either an epic war campaign (and that folks is where my knowledge of Warhammer 40k ends) or a extreme audio festival within which the band has invited all their friends, family, and any (other) act influenced by the OSDM composition works of Karl Willets, Jo Bench and crew. But who am I kidding? It’s more probable this depicts legions of single mothers attempting to stock up on toiletries during the Covid pandemic.
https://chainsword.bandcamp.com/album/born-triumphant
The Audio
Undeniably and unabashedly influenced Born Triumphant is in all likelihood where fans of the aforementioned act are want to turn their attentions following (BT’s climactic final offering) Those Once Loyal. With that being stated however the compositions here are slightly more diverse than that found upon the aforementioned. Sure, the driving dirge is here, the dense tone and the conflict-based lyrical similarities (be they fantasy or reality based) but I can’t help but be of the inclination that this is more melodic, contains enough groove to get the limbs spastically twitchin’, leans more toward Doom Death arenas, and it must be mentioned there’s a damn sight more soundbites here than BT ever pondered upon utilizing. Both decisions raise zero complaints from me. Overall, this is an impressive offering which sees the band tinker somewhat with the tried, tested and true siege machine parameters of their influences to great effect.
86
Serpent’s Oath (Belgium) – Revelation
March 24 (Odium Records)
The Art
It’s apparently a quiet day in the Great Halls of the Dark Lord. His subjects appear somewhat spent. Perhaps they’ve exerted too much energy within the last orgy-to-end-all-orgies? Moshed a little too hard to the last musical act passing through? Is a simpler explanation too blame? Are the rigors of adulting also exhausting in Hells vast arena? I’ve heard rumors of a recent spiking of the banquets virgin blood supply, though I’m of the opinion that Fentanyl would likely only surge the rampaging throes of wickedness and insatiable lust.
This image captures the attention, offering a porthole into the most diabolical of details within the unholiest of lairs.
https://odiumrecords.bandcamp.com/album/serpents-oath-revelation
The Audio
Basted in scathing and vicious composition values; unmerciful riffs, rhythms reeking of nostalgic tones yet brimming with a wicked intent all their own and a snarling vocal approach sure to excite any Black hearted fan, this assaults with unrepentant fury. Brimming with atmosphere and a melodicism that carves an impression with its frigid might, this incites excitement in all those yearning for speed and grandiose textures blanketed in enigmatic archaic menace.
92
Subterraen (France) – In the Aftermath of Blight
April 24 (Frozen Records)
The Art
Rendered in delicate BnW ink (obviously only black, for those paying close attention) this image portrays either a statue, or an angel of sorts likely taking a smoke break following a successful carnage laden foray into demontown. Sure, the wings appear a little tattered, are definitely in need of a spot of TLC, but the form still appears upright. Exhausted, but standing. Other possibilities include, but are certainly not limited to, an alien form visiting Earth searching for “the newest taste sensation to sweep the galaxy” (points for whoever can pinpoint the quote), and a faded polaroid of a runner up in the Southend-on-Sea 1986 village spring fete dress up parade.
https://subterraenband.bandcamp.com/album/in-the-aftermath-of-blight
The Audio
For all those demanding that this installment include a Doom type release, here it is! There’s little doubt this might be the case when the album comprises of four tracks and is barely shy of forty minutes in length.
Those hoping for a traditional Doom type affair might be disappointed, or rather pleasantly surprised (depending upon their tastes). In the Aftermath of Blight is dramatically not predictable, is multi-layered, epic in texture, and certainly demands a listen, or six, to fully unpack. Chock full of Sludge sensibilities, cinematic atmospheres, prog landscapes littered with a varied composition palette including Post and DeathDoom passages, and offering terrific builds, this is an album that delivers, especially for those with an openminded enough nature to willingly want to embrace what’s on offer. Similar artists are varied and range from the likes of Gojira, YOB, Pallbearer and Paradise Lost.
Admittedly, this isn’t what I had assumed it might be, but it’s hitting the demands of the moment; a brief sojourn on the couch with a beverage and snacks, with not a care in the world.
91
Christ Denied (Spain) – Christopsy
May 24 (Xtreem Music)
The Art
Vivid, wicked and gloriously sacrilegious, this image depicts what might have happened if George R Romero had directed the last supper. There’s an u denial vicious nature slathered across numerous faces of the feasting, whilst others yet have a visage draped in wonderment. …”Like, seriously am I about to partake of the sweetbreads of Christ?” Is it that the disciples are famished? Or perhaps they’re taking the eucharistic to mean literally to ‘eat the body of Christ’. Questions remain, but there’s little doubt that this sublime tableau leaves little to the imagination, sure to excite the gorehounds among us and leave those with a penchant for Glen Barton Deicide/Vital Remains themed DM eager to place the ears upon that which is nestled within. Fun fact; a wafer in the modern day equivalent weighs a quarter of a gram. It would take eating 234,960.85 wafers to literally have ‘consumed’ all 129.5 pounds of the (I’d say somewhat ‘stringy’) Holy bearded fellow.
https://xtreemmusic.bandcamp.com/album/christopsy
The Audio
With an image such as this, one has their digits crossed that the audio is as equally distracting. Admittedly, I’m of two minds about it. The included soundbites, no doubt plucked from a wide array of cinematic productions, are especially effective and truly make one ponder upon the usefulness and abuse perpetrated by religion throughout the ages. The music, quite unlike the aforementioned two acts, is a mixture of Brutal DM, Slam and to a lesser degree Goregrind. Provided rhythms are choppy, crunchy and pulverizing with the vocal accompaniment a filthy mix of growl and bree-bree stylings with the odd excitable frog, likely squeezed a tad too hard for its own liking, tossed in for good measure. It isn’t all up in the air however. There are a few tracks which rise above the rest, a likely combination of ‘pig squeals’ being at a minimum and the tracks technicality being slightly more pronounced. Otherwise there’s a great deal of ‘samey’ going on. This is a hit and miss affair for me no doubt dependent on my mood.
I’m giving this a generous, based on the art, soundbites, and its being more accessible than most in the same arena.
72
Six Feet Under (USA) – Killing for Revenge May 24 (Metal Blade Records)
The Art
“Heads…on a schtick!”
Yeppers, this art showcases a cranium kebab. Messy. I find it interesting that the image here contains the same tones found in another acts imagery. But more specifically, that encasing output unleashed a few years following Mr. Barnes departure (from the act in question).
With the obvious being stated, I’m left wondering how much of an impact it might make? It has my attention, I’m eager, infinitely more intrigued to spin a SFU album, than admittedly I have been in many a year.
https://sixfeetunder.bandcamp.com/album/killing-for-revenge
The Audio
And, this ain’t half bad. I’m pleasantly surprised in fact. There’s little argument that SFU has churned out some real stinkers, so to say I entered here with assumptions is a little of an understatement. But let’s not get too hasty here. This isn’t a landmark album, Killing for Revenge doesn’t break any new ground, nor carve any fresh paths, and Mr. Barnes isn’t resurrecting his glory CC (Butchered, Tomb, The Bleeding) days vocal wise. However, there are moments here, riffs to incite movement, notable tracks sure to alight excitement in those who held out hope that there was something, anything, left. Perhaps there is? Is this the dawning of a new era? It remains to be seen, but there’s definitely a sizable chunk of hope based on what’s bouncing between my ears. I’m liking this a damn sight more than I thought I ever might.
Give it a shot, even though odds are Chris has likely blocked you on Twitter for no reason.
75
That’s it, that’s the end.
B
CultMetalFlix 