Some fans may understandably be put off by the fact that the 3 year wait for new Vasaeleth (Profound Lore) material has resulted in a mere 5 track, 19 minute release. However, there is a strong argument that this release format is ideal for the style of ugly death metal that Vasaeleth play. When the consistent high quality of the release becomes apparent, any complaint about it’s briefness should be silenced. The short runtime actually offers more incentive to revisit the release more frequently.
The sound here is deliberately ugly, lo-fi and old school, yet despite all this, the music never sounds dated or tired. This is a strong release in it’s own right, not just a tribute to the death metal heroes of the past. There is definite sense of melody buried under the reverb. Despite the initial chaotic sound, there are strong riffs throughout release. Although Vasaeleth are far from accessible, they are far less daunting than a band like Portal. Parts of the album, such as the slower, doomy riff on ‘Paradise Reconsecrated’ are almost hummable, something that can’t be said for many recent death metal releases that worship the old school style.
The album is also surprisingly dynamic. The slower passages are so dirty you’ll want to wash after listening, but the fast paced, more aggressive riffs displayed on songs like ‘Black Curse Upheld’ will have you struggling to sit still whilst listening. All round, highly recommended for fans of ugly death metal. It’s difficult to fault such a concise, high quality album.
9/10
Tom Saunders