Let's dive into the brutal world of death metal and explore the latest offering from Indonesian duo Vertiginous, titled “Incessant Affliction”. This album is a relentless assault on the senses, a true testament to the band's dedication to the genre.
The Brutal Impact
From the very first track, “Suffering, Misery, and Slaughtering,” Vertiginous sets the tone with its intense and unyielding approach. The vocals are tortured and inhuman, the drums are a relentless barrage, and the guitars create a lawless, chaotic onslaught. It's a brutal welcome, and one that leaves you wondering what's to come.
Musical Influences and Style
Musically, Vertiginous draws inspiration from the likes of Suffocation, Devourment, and Cannibal Corpse, creating a sound that is both familiar and unique. The band's take on brutal death metal is characterized by its simplicity, relying on a relentless clatter to pulverize listeners. However, they also incorporate some intriguing elements, such as bite-sized bass breaks that add a nice, chunky texture to the mix.
A Lack of Distinction
One aspect that I found intriguing, yet somewhat problematic, is the album's lack of differentiation between tracks. While each song is a brutal masterpiece in its own right, the overall experience can feel a bit monotonous. The songs blend together, and it's challenging to pinpoint specific moments or passages that stand out. This is a double-edged sword, as it can either immerse listeners in a relentless sonic assault or leave them craving more variety.
Production and Performance
The production on “Incessant Affliction” is spot-on for the genre. It's a calculated bludgeon, a sonic concussion that adds to the overall impact. The mix is well-balanced, with everything pushed to the forefront, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience. The performances are equally impressive, with Bima's guttural vocals delivering a seismic punch and Prasetyo's instrumental prowess shining through, especially on the chaotic and deadly guitar work.
A Mixed Bag
Despite the album's flaws, Vertiginous has crafted an album that is undeniably brutal and menacing. The lack of distinction between tracks is a valid criticism, but when taken as individual songs, “Incessant Affliction” delivers a potent dose of death metal. It's a mixed bag, but one that fans of the genre will undoubtedly find intriguing. While it may not be the most infectious release, it's a rotten delight that warrants multiple listens.
Final Thoughts
Vertiginous has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the brutal death metal scene. “Incessant Affliction” is a powerful statement, but it could benefit from a bit more diversity to truly set it apart. Nonetheless, it's an album that leaves a lasting impression, and I, for one, am eager to see what the band comes up with next.
