Many say that this album is a death metal masterpiece. Originally released in 1993, Metal Mind Productions gives you another chance to judge for yourself. Whether you think so or not, this is an album that is as powerful today as when I first heard it 15 years ago.
The thing that hits you right off the bat is the musical ability of the band. The way that they construct their vision of music is as potent as the intense growl of vocalist Scott Reigel. The opening song "These Walls Shall Be Your Grave" is a classic example of how the band can pull you in with their multiple time changes and complex song structure. This is not just guys thrashing around on the guitar, this is a real example of how it should be done in the world of death metal.
They even include two instrumental works that are just terrific. "Sympathy" and "Spirit World" show the diversity of the band with these melodic interludes that may seem out of place on a death metal disc but are really just points where you can catch your breath before the fury is unleashed!
One of the best moments on the album is the song "Crushed". While the entire disc is of the highest quality, this song highlights the dynamic guitar duo Don Gates and Jay Fernandez as they mesmerize with their outstanding ability on this tune. I kept coming back to this one time and time again.
There are a lot of places on this disc where you can point to superb six string work though. "Cries Of The Forsaken" is another example that will have you cranking the volume knob to max.
This is a disc that is or should be in the collection of any death metal fan. The thrashy and brutal guitar work is excellent and the deep growl of Scott Reigel is one that set the standard for the genre. It is just a great album on so many levels that you will thank Metal Mind for giving you the chance to have another shot at this disc.
Track listing:
1. These Walls Shall Be Your Grave
2. Ceremonial Unearthing
3. Sympathy
4. Septicemic Plague
5. Crushed
6. Spirit World
7. Exposed To The Elements
8. Cries Of The Forsaken
9. Cryptorium
10. Spawned Illusion
Bonus Track
11. Sadistic
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