Invultation returns with “Feral Legion,” an album that wastes no time in reminding us why they’re considered a force to be reckoned with in the realm of old-school death metal. This ten-track monstrosity is a masterclass in pulverizing riffs, guttural vocals, and an atmosphere that’s both bleak and strangely captivating.
Track-by-Track:
- Adversarial Procession of Primordial Abomination: The album kicks off with a short, unsettling intro that sets the stage for the sonic onslaught to come. Ominous synth drones and ritualistic drumming give way to a monstrous riff that signals the arrival of pure, unadulterated death metal mayhem.
- Severed Umbilical Chaos: Invultation throws down the gauntlet with this track. Relentless blast beats and churning riffs pummel the listener, while vocalist Phil Tougas unleashes a torrent of guttural growls that perfectly embody the album’s feral energy.
- Burial Leech: A shift in gears arrives with “Burial Leech.” The tempo slows down considerably, giving way to a suffocatingly heavy atmosphere. Crushing riffs and strategically placed feedback create a sense of dread, while the drumming maintains a relentless pulse.
- Human Caltrops: This track injects a dose of Slayer-esque thrash into the mix. Breakneck drumming and a galloping riff propel the song forward, making it a headbanging highlight of the album.
- Mark of the Fang: Invultation dips its toes into horror influences with “Mark of the Fang.” The track evokes a sense of creeping dread with its eerie melodies and tortured screams. It’s a welcome change of pace that showcases the band’s ability to create atmosphere beyond relentless aggression.
Remaining Tracks: The second half of “Feral Legion” maintains the album’s punishing intensity. Tracks like “Desolation Reigns” and “Whispers of the Flayed” offer no respite, while “Obliteration Altar” throws in a touch of doom-laden grandeur. The album closes with “Charnel Tapestry,” a fittingly bleak and oppressive conclusion.
Verdict:
“Feral Legion” is a triumph for Invultation. It’s a masterfully crafted exercise in old-school death metal, devoid of unnecessary frills and focused on pure sonic devastation. The album expertly blends moments of crushing heaviness with unsettling atmosphere, making for a truly rewarding listening experience. For fans of bands like Morbid Angel, Immolation, and Incantation, “Feral Legion” is a must-have.
Score: 4.5 out of 5
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