Left Cross – Upon Desecrated Altars

Richmond, Virginia’s Left Cross returns with their sophomore album, “Upon Desecrated Altars,” a brutal and uncompromising assault on the senses. This record sees the band refine their sound, channeling the raw energy of early death metal into a tightly focused and undeniably punishing listening experience.

Track-by-Track:

• The Blood of Mars: The album explodes with “The Blood of Mars,” a relentless barrage of blast beats and churning riffs. Vocals delivered in a guttural roar paint a picture of apocalyptic warfare, perfectly setting the tone for the album’s thematic exploration of violence and destruction.
• Deity of Molten Iron: A shift in tempo arrives with “Deity of Molten Iron.” The song slows down slightly, allowing the crushing weight of the guitars to take center stage. However, the intensity never truly dissipates, with bursts of blast beats and scorching leads keeping the listener on edge.
• Burning Raids: This track injects a dose of frantic energy into the mix. Breakneck drumming propels the song forward, while the guitars create a swirling vortex of distortion. Left Cross showcases their impressive rhythmic control here, with frequent tempo changes that keep the listener guessing.
• Upon Desecrated Altars: The title track lives up to its name, offering a masterclass in bestial death metal. Relentless aggression is the name of the game, with the band demonstrating a willingness to push the boundaries of sonic brutality. However, amidst the chaos, there are moments of surprising melody that add a layer of depth to the song.
• Celestial Wound: The album concludes with “Celestial Wound,” a fittingly bleak and atmospheric track. The tempo slows down considerably, and the guitars settle into a mournful drone. Vocals delivered in a tortured whisper add to the track’s oppressive atmosphere, leaving the listener with a sense of utter despair.

Verdict:

“Upon Desecrated Altars” is a triumph for Left Cross. While firmly rooted in the traditions of early death metal, the album avoids sounding derivative. The band injects their own brand of feral aggression into the mix, creating a sound that is both punishing and strangely compelling. The songwriting, while focused on delivering pure sonic brutality, demonstrates a commendable level of craft. Fans of bands like Morbid Angel, Immolation, and early Cannibal Corpse will find much to worship here.

Score: 4 out of 5