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The sheer scale and creative ingenuity of this album go far beyond what you might initially perceive. The Kentucky-based heavyweights have outdone themselves, not only delivering some of the most crushingly heavy songs of their career but also diving deep into emotionally charged territory with a rawness and intensity that is impossible to ignore. Every track on this record is unique, both sonically and emotionally, drawing you in with its intricate soundscapes while pulling you through some of the darkest and most haunting emotions imaginable. The atmosphere they create is overwhelming, and each song has a way of captivating you in a different manner.
There’s a deliberate, almost experimental edge to their approach—whether it's an unexpected riff, a wildly unconventional drum pattern, or a change-up in tempo that completely catches you off guard. These elements, though seemingly small, contribute so much to the overall experience that it’s almost unreal how effectively they make such bold choices in such a brief runtime. It’s like a musical masterclass in what can be achieved in minimal time.
The guitars? Absolutely pulverizing. They slam down with a ferocity that makes you feel like you're being buried alive in sound, but at the same time, the crisp, clean production keeps things accessible, making you crave more even as the heaviness threatens to swallow you whole. The drumming? It pops with such intensity that every hit is felt through the very core of your being, pounding through your earphones with an unrelenting force. Then there’s the bass, which doesn’t just occupy space in the mix—it practically destroys it, resonating with such deep, guttural power that you can physically feel it in your chest.
The vocals are, without a doubt, some of the rawest and most commanding in the game today. The frontman has truly perfected their style, matching every ounce of energy and aggression the band delivers. And when the backing vocals kick in—those sudden, eerie bursts of deep, demonic harmonies—they shake up the whole dynamic, adding a menacing layer of tension and surprise at just the right moments. The two guest vocalists also contribute in meaningful ways, perfectly complementing the band's sound and enhancing the overall atmosphere.
The final track, "Sit and Mourn," is particularly special. It’s a stunning example of the band's versatility as they pull back from the unrelenting heaviness for a moment, allowing for an unexpected, yet equally captivating, shift in tone. By stripping away some of the weight, they create a more haunting, atmospheric sound that highlights their ability to evoke emotion through both power and restraint.
Honestly, it’s hard to find anything to critique here. From start to finish, this album is a relentless force of nature, expertly balancing weight, intricacy, and emotion. It’s a work of art that’s as much about feeling as it is about sound, and it’s clear that this band has reached a level of mastery in their craft that few can match.
RATING: 10/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Thirst
Suffocate
Take Me Home
Blinding Faith
Sit & Mourn