From Austria comes Indyus and their debut full length release Ashes of Dystopia. Though self released, this fairly new band (together only since 2007) comes across as one who have a bit more seasoning that than actually should. Even if Ashes of Dystopia isn't the most unique death metal record you'll hear this year, there's a lot to like here for extreme metal fans of all ages.
The band is comprised of Matthias Mayr (vocals/rhythm guitar), David Furtschegger (lead guitar), Jakob Innauer (bass), and Klemens Mayr (drums), and judging by what you hear on Ashes of Dystopia, it's obvious that these guys are no slouches on their instruments, and spent plenty of time digesting their classic thrash and death metal CD collections. Hints of Slayer, Obituary, Death, and Vader can be heard throughout these songs, but Indyus come across as merely paying homage to these great acts, rather than copying them. Brutal numbers such as "Theories" and the evil title track throw pummeling riffs and crushing rhythms at the listener, while Matthias' inhuman growls and screams smash you into complete oblivion. Other thrash busters like "The Future Is Over" and "Zeitgeist" offer up some speedy excitement, while the doomier, more death metalish fare such as "Abyss of Ignorance" and "Necrosis (Of Human Kind)" deliver some nice variety. Not sure where the bizarre, gothic/industrial "The Dilemma" fits in here, but that's really the only missfire among a group of pretty strong tunes.
Again, Ashes of Dystopia isn't going to win any awards for originality, but it shows a young band that seemingly have many of the tools necessary to begin to make a name for themselves in the world of extreme metal. Add in some really nice packaging and you have a CD worth seeking out if you are a fan of thrashy death metal.
Track Listing
1. Into Eternity
2. Ashes of Dystopia
3. Altared Apes
4. Theories
5. The Dilemma
6. Future Is Over
7. Burial Time
8. The Necrosis (of Human Kind)
9. Abyss of Ignorance
10. Zeitgeist