Return to Mar Music Reviews 2023
Judiciary has been biding their time, meticulously crafting their long-awaited second LP, and from the very first listen, it’s clear—they’ve poured their flesh, blood, and sheer aggression into this record. While the album kicks off with a slow build, it doesn’t take long before the floodgates of heaviness burst open, unleashing their signature mix of crushing riffs, ripping guitar solos, and throat-shredding vocals.
This time around, Judiciary has leveled up in every way—not just in sheer heaviness but also in musicianship and production quality. The sound is thicker, meaner, and more refined, with each track hitting harder and more precisely than ever before. The production is noticeably cleaner and more polished compared to their previous album, allowing every pummeling riff and bone-rattling drum hit to land with maximum impact.
One of the biggest surprises? The use of clean vocals. While unexpected, they are seamlessly woven into the album’s flow, adding a new layer of depth without compromising the band's relentless aggression. However, in refining their sound, some of the raw, gritty edge from their last release has been traded in for a more wall-shattering, high-volume assault.
By all technical measures, this record is a step up across the board—bigger, heavier, and more dynamically executed. Yet, despite its overall strength, only the lead singles and the closing track truly stood out to me on first listen. The album is undeniably solid, but compared to their last release, there wasn’t that one track that immediately grabbed me and refused to let go. Additionally, some mumbled vocal parts, reminiscent of their previous album, are still present.
All in all, this is a powerful, well-crafted release, showcasing a more evolved Judiciary. Whether or not it surpasses its predecessor will depend on how it grows with repeat listens. Check the last page for my final score.
RATING: 7/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Flesh
Blood
Engulfed
Paradigm Piercer
Obsidian
Eschatos Hemera