The best way I can describe Celestial Rot, the latest album from All Out War, is that it’s fast, brutal, and absolutely relentless. From start to finish, the blast beats and furious guitar riffs hammer down with an unyielding intensity that doesn’t let up for its entire 25-minute runtime. And while that unrelenting speed and aggression are thrilling at first, it eventually becomes one of the album’s biggest drawbacks. The constant barrage of high-speed drumming and shredding guitars can, at times, blur the lines between songs, making parts of the album feel somewhat repetitive and lacking in dynamic contrast.
However, despite this relentless assault, there are some truly standout moments hidden beneath the surface. For all the blasting chaos, you can find flashes of groove, technicality, and surprising depth. The drumming, for instance, isn’t just a wall of noise—it’s dynamic, with shifts in pace and intricacy that keep you engaged. The guitar work is not only fast but also impressively technical, with riffs that show off real skill and thoughtful composition amidst the fury. The bass, which can often get lost in the mix in albums like this, is punchy and prominent here—its rumbling presence adds a palpable weight to the sound, grounding the faster sections. Then there’s the overall production, which is top-notch: crisp, clear, and balanced, allowing all these elements to shine through, even in the middle of the chaotic onslaught.
Of course, no All Out War album would be complete without a vocalist who can match the ferocity of the music, and Celestial Rot doesn’t disappoint. The vocals are as visceral and gut-wrenching as ever, with snarls and growls that feel personal and savage, bringing a real sense of anger and urgency to the tracks.
All Out War has been honing their craft for years, and it’s clear that they know exactly what their fans want. While Celestial Rot might be a whirlwind of blast beats and breakneck tempos, it’s also an album that rewards attention to detail, with enough variation and skillful musicianship to prevent it from just being a nonstop, mindless barrage. Despite the title, there's nothing “rotting” about this album—if anything, it feels like a band at the top of their game, still capable of pushing their sound forward while staying true to their roots.
RATING: 8/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Glorious Devastation
Caustic Abomination
Revel In Misery