🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Leave of Absence
Track 2: Belief Is Obsolete
Track 3: Clear Cutter
Track 4: Anti‐Spirit Machine
Track 5: Reality in Retrograde
Track 6: Past Tense
Track 7: Velvet Black
Track 8: Twenty‐Twenty Vision
Track 9: Algorithm of Fear
Track 10: Empty Vessel
🎸 Album Review:
Umbra Vitae, the metal supergroup formed by members of Converge, The Red Chord, and Job for a Cowboy, has unleashed their debut album ‘Light Of Death’, a relentless onslaught of sonic ferocity that pushes the boundaries of extreme music. With a tracklist that reads like a descent into the darkest corners of the human psyche, this album is a visceral exploration of themes such as mortality, existential dread, and the destructive nature of belief systems.
From the opening track, “Leave of Absence”, Umbra Vitae wastes no time in establishing their uncompromising sound. The album is a sonic assault of blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and guttural vocals that create a sense of unease and tension throughout. The production is raw and abrasive, adding to the overall atmosphere of chaos and despair that permeates the record.
Standout tracks like “Belief Is Obsolete” and “Clear Cutter” showcase the band’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of death metal, hardcore, and black metal into a cohesive and crushing sound. The relentless energy of these tracks is matched only by their lyrical intensity, as frontman Jacob Bannon delivers gut-wrenching screams that cut through the cacophony of noise like a knife.
“Anti‐Spirit Machine” and “Reality in Retrograde” delve even deeper into the abyss, with haunting melodies and eerie atmospherics adding a layer of complexity to the band’s already dense sound. These tracks showcase Umbra Vitae’s willingness to push the boundaries of their genre, incorporating elements of post-metal and experimental music to create a truly unique listening experience.
In comparison to their previous work with their respective bands, ‘Light Of Death’ sees Umbra Vitae embracing a darker and more introspective tone. While Converge and The Red Chord are known for their frenetic energy and technical prowess, Umbra Vitae takes a more restrained approach, focusing on creating a sense of atmosphere and mood rather than sheer aggression.
The overall impact of ‘Light Of Death’ is nothing short of staggering. This is an album that demands your full attention, drawing you in with its relentless intensity and refusing to let go until the final notes fade away. The band’s musicianship is top-notch, with each member contributing their own unique flair to the overall sound.
As the album comes to a close with the haunting “Empty Vessel”, it is clear that Umbra Vitae has created something truly special with ‘Light Of Death’. This is not just another metal album – it is a journey into the depths of the human soul, a sonic exploration of the darkness that lurks within us all.
In conclusion, ‘Light Of Death’ is a masterclass in extreme music, showcasing Umbra Vitae’s ability to create a visceral and uncompromising listening experience. With its relentless energy, haunting atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes, this album is a must-listen for fans of heavy music everywhere.