🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Communion Carbonized
Track 2: The Silent Eye
Track 3: Vagrant Death
Track 4: Planetary Mortuary
Track 5: Surface of a Dead World
Track 6: Grieving Winds
Track 7: Fleshwalker
Track 8: Escape Artist
Track 9: Breeding Hysterics
🎸 Album Review:
“The Absence” by The Absence is a relentless and powerful offering that solidifies the band’s position as one of the leading forces in the melodic death metal scene. The album, released in 2020, presents a blend of ferocious aggression, intricate melodies, and atmospheric elements that create a dark and haunting sonic landscape. Across nine tracks, The Absence delve deep into themes of loss, despair, and the inevitable decay of existence, delivering a musical experience that is both intense and emotionally gripping.
From the opening track, “Communion Carbonized,” the listener is immediately thrust into the band’s world of blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and guttural vocals. The relentless energy of this track sets the stage for what is to come, showcasing The Absence’s technical prowess and unyielding intensity.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “The Silent Eye,” a haunting and atmospheric piece that showcases the band’s ability to create a sense of foreboding and unease. The intricate guitar work, combined with the haunting melodies and powerful vocals, make this track a standout moment on the album. The contrast between the melodic passages and the brutal, chugging riffs adds depth and complexity to the song, drawing the listener in and refusing to let go.
Another highlight is “Grieving Winds,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s ability to blend melody and aggression seamlessly. The soaring guitar solos, pummeling drums, and fierce vocals create a sense of catharsis and emotional release, making this track a standout moment on the album.
In comparison to The Absence’s previous albums, this self-titled release sees the band pushing their sound to new heights while staying true to their melodic death metal roots. While their earlier works showcased the band’s technical proficiency and songwriting skills, “The Absence” takes things a step further by incorporating more atmospheric elements and a darker, more introspective tone. The production on the album is also top-notch, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive and powerful sound.
Overall, “The Absence” is a triumph for the band, showcasing their growth and maturity as musicians while delivering a potent and memorable listening experience. The album’s themes of loss, despair, and the inevitability of death are conveyed with a raw and unflinching honesty, resonating with the listener on a visceral level. From the blistering intensity of tracks like “Fleshwalker” to the haunting melodies of “Escape Artist,” The Absence have crafted a work of art that is both brutal and beautiful, showcasing their skill and passion for their craft.
In conclusion, “The Absence” by The Absence is a must-listen for fans of melodic death metal and anyone who appreciates music that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. With this album, The Absence have solidified their place as one of the genre’s most exciting and talented bands, and it will be fascinating to see where their musical journey takes them next.