Umbra Vitae, the metal supergroup featuring members of Converge and The Red Chord, released their debut album, Shadow of Life, in 2020 as a homage to classic death metal bands. However, their latest offering, Light of Death, takes a different direction, showcasing the band’s unique sound and individual strengths. Vocalist Jacob Bannon’s intense delivery, reminiscent of his work in Converge, shines through on tracks like “Anti-Spirit Machine,” accompanied by Mike McKenzie and Sean Martin’s infectious riffs.
The album delves into themes of societal disillusionment and distraction, evident in tracks like “Reality in Retrograde” and “Nature vs Nurture,” reflecting a world on the brink of reckoning. Despite its dark undertones, Light of Death also offers moments of beauty, notably in the brooding track “Velvet Black,” showcasing the band’s versatility and refusal to conform to genre boundaries.
One standout track, “Twenty Twenty Vision,” stands out as a powerful anthem, defying the typical metalcore stereotypes with its raw intensity. The album’s guitar tone, reminiscent of Converge’s style, adds a layer of sonic heaviness that sets Umbra Vitae apart from traditional death metal bands, creating a more dynamic listening experience.
Tracks like “Cause and Effect” and “Deep End” further explore the album’s theme of societal collapse, delivering a visceral listening experience that challenges the listener to confront uncomfortable truths. Light of Death is not just a metal album; it is a sonic journey that evolves with each listen, offering a blend of aggression and honesty that demands attention.
Umbra Vitae’s departure from conventional death metal tropes in Light of Death showcases their evolution as a band, pushing boundaries and creating a unique musical identity. With a blend of ferocious energy and introspective lyricism, the album serves as a testament to the band’s artistic growth and commitment to delivering a powerful, immersive listening experience.
As Umbra Vitae continues to carve their path in the metal scene, Light of Death stands out as a bold statement of intent, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of heavy music. With its blend of aggression, emotion, and sonic experimentation, the album cements Umbra Vitae’s place as a standout act in the metal landscape, offering a refreshing take on the genre that defies expectations and demands to be heard.
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