Cryptopsy, the Canadian brutal death metal pioneers, have been on a tear lately. After a decade without a full-length album, they’ve roared back with a vengeance, releasing new music, signing with a new label, and hitting the road for a series of headlining tours. Here’s a look at the latest happenings in the Cryptopsy camp:
New Album “As Gomorrah Burns”
The biggest news for Cryptopsy fans is undoubtedly their brand new studio album, “As Gomorrah Burns,” set for release on September 8th, 2023, via Nuclear Blast Records. This marks their first full-length since their self-titled effort in 2012 and their debut with the legendary metal label.
The album promises a return to form, delivering the band’s signature brand of technical brutality. Singles like “Lascivious Undivine” and “Flayed the Swine” showcase their ferocious blast beats, intricate guitar riffs, and Matt McGachy’s guttural vocals perfectly. However, the band hasn’t shied away from experimentation either. Tracks like “In Abeyance” and “The Righteous Lost” demonstrate a willingness to incorporate groove elements without sacrificing their sonic intensity.
Nuclear Blast Partnership
Cryptopsy’s signing with Nuclear Blast is a significant move. The label boasts a roster of some of the biggest names in extreme metal, and this partnership will undoubtedly expose the band to a wider audience. The band expressed their excitement about the collaboration, highlighting their shared passion for the genre and the opportunity to be alongside their musical heroes.
Touring Onslaught
Cryptopsy hasn’t wasted any time promoting their new material. Throughout 2023 and 2024, they’ve embarked on a series of tours, keeping their brutal sound fresh in the minds of fans. They first joined forces with death metal legends Atheist for a European tour in February 2024, followed by a North American headlining tour in July 2023. This summer, they’ll be headlining a string of shows alongside the “Death to All” tour, promising a night of unadulterated death metal mayhem.
A Look Back: Lineup Changes and Legacy
Cryptopsy has seen its fair share of lineup changes over the years. Notably, vocalist Lord Worm parted ways with the band in 2012, with Matt McGachy taking over vocal duties. Despite the changes, the band’s core identity – the technical mastery of founding member and drummer Flo Mounier and guitarist Christian Donaldson – remains intact.
Cryptopsy’s influence on the genre is undeniable. Their albums, particularly the genre-defining “None So Vile” (1996), are considered cornerstones of brutal death metal. Their technical proficiency, combined with their relentlessly aggressive sound, has inspired countless bands and continues to shape the extreme metal landscape.
A New Chapter for Cryptopsy
Cryptopsy’s recent resurgence is a welcome treat for fans of brutal death metal. With a new album packed with ferocious energy, a powerful label backing them, and a relentless touring schedule, Cryptopsy is proving they’re a force to be reckoned with once again.
As they celebrate their 30th anniversary as a band, it’s clear that Cryptopsy is far from finished. With their new material and relentless touring, they’re not just reliving their past glories; they’re actively pushing the boundaries of their genre and carving a fresh chapter in their brutal legacy.
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