Crypta, the all-female Brazilian death metal force, returns with their sophomore album, “Shades Of Sorrow.” Following their critically acclaimed 2021 debut, “Echoes of the Soul,” Crypta refines their sound on “Shades Of Sorrow,” delving deeper into the abyss of death metal with a denser soundscape, intricate songwriting, and a potent atmosphere of darkness and despair. Does this follow-up solidify Crypta’s position as a rising force in the genre, or does it merely echo the successes of their debut? Let’s shred through the layers of sonic brutality and find out.
A Masterclass in Modern Death Metal:
Crypta avoids nostalgia, crafting a sound that is firmly rooted in modern death metal. The production on “Shades Of Sorrow” is crisp and clear, allowing every instrument to shine through the complex arrangements. The guitars churn out a relentless barrage of riffs, from the technical flourishes of “Ghost of Redemption” to the crushing brutality of “Starlight Through Broken Glass.” Drummer Luana Dametto provides a thunderous foundation, her precise and punishing drumming laying the groundwork for the sonic assault.
Fernanda Lira: A Force of Nature on Bass and Vocals:
Bassist and vocalist Fernanda Lira remains a standout element of Crypta. Her bass lines are thick and groovy, often forming the backbone of the music. Her vocals are equally impressive, ranging from guttural growls that send shivers down the spine to raspy snarls that perfectly complement the aggressive nature of the music. Lira’s lyrical themes delve into personal struggles, societal issues, and the darkness that lurks within the human psyche, adding depth and emotional resonance to the album’s sonic brutality.
Evolution Through Density and Nuance:
While “Echoes of the Soul” showcased Crypta’s raw talent and technical prowess, “Shades Of Sorrow” reveals a band that’s matured and grown in confidence. The songwriting on this album is more intricate, incorporating tempo changes, dynamic shifts, and unexpected melodic flourishes. Tracks like “The Wretched Kind” showcase Crypta’s ability to balance moments of brutality with passages of melancholic beauty, adding a layer of nuance to their sound.
A New Guitarist Injects Fresh Energy:
The addition of new guitarist Jessica Falchi brings a fresh perspective to Crypta’s sound. Falchi’s technical skills are on display throughout the album, adding a layer of complexity to the guitar work. Her solos are scorching and shredding, showcasing a clear understanding of the genre’s conventions while incorporating her own stylistic flair.
A Cohesive Listening Experience with Room for Growth:
“Shades Of Sorrow” flows seamlessly from track to track, creating a cohesive listening experience that takes the listener on a dark and intense journey. However, some listeners might find the overall atmosphere to be a bit relentless. The inclusion of a single instrumental track or a song with a more dynamic tempo shift could have provided a welcome moment of respite without sacrificing the album’s overall heaviness.
A Must-Listen for Death Metal Aficionados:
“Shades Of Sorrow” is a strong sophomore effort from Crypta. The album showcases their growth as musicians and songwriters, solidifying their position as a band to watch in the death metal scene. With its dense soundscapes, intricate songwriting, and Fernanda Lira’s commanding presence, “Shades Of Sorrow” is a must-listen for fans of modern death metal who crave a sonic assault that is both brutal and technically impressive.
A Dark and Dazzling Display of Modern Death Metal Mastery:
Crypta has delivered an album that is as dark and oppressive as it is technically dazzling. “Shades Of Sorrow” is a testament to the band’s talent and a sign of even greater things to come. So, crank up the volume, prepare to be pummeled, and experience the sonic mastery of Crypta.
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