If Crypta failed to make it onto your radar after their 2021 debut, they’ve returned to ensure that doesn’t happen again.

The Brazilian death metallers this time around crafted thirteen songs chock full of hellacious vocals and eclectic musicianship. Shades Of Sorrow (Napalm) also features a trio of piano interludes throughout, but don’t mistake that for Crypta taking their foots off the gas.

As ever, Fernanda Lira is a beast on the microphone. Her vocals are shot out of her mouth as if her life literally depends on it. There are even moments when it sounds like she’s using a razor blade as a toothbrush.

That being said, there is no doubt an air of crispness and cleanness to the production (no shock considering the Napalm banner under which the record is housed). 

Though falling victim to becoming a bit over-instrumental at times, the raucous tandem of Jéssica di Falchi and Tainá Bergamaschi exude virtuosic prowess. ‘Poisonous Apathy’ especially exemplifies this. And the galloping, pulverizing guitar/drum (via Luana Dametto) combos featured on ‘Dark Clouds’ sets the scene with a kind of invigorating luster. 

All of the elements and coordination culminate in ‘The Other Side Of Anger,’ perhaps the hookiest track on the record. More measured compositionally, it’s a downright delectable serving of death metal. And if hooks aren’t your cup of tea, ‘Lift The Blindfold’ is a bonafide bruiser front to back. And ‘Stronghold’ is sloggier yet just as acerbic. 

Curiously enough, Shades Of Sorrow both begins and ends with songs alluding to the end (‘The Aftermath,’ ‘The Closure’.) 

Cheeky comments aside, Crypta continues to forge an identity of angry, slicing metal. The professional production value nevertheless contributes to the outcome, but it’s the fourpiece that does all the heavy lifting. Effectively utilizing multiple tempos and structures, Shades… is as good as reason as any to give Crypta your undivided attention.

Buy the album here:

https://www.cryptaofficial.com/

7 / 10

MATT COOK