Vastum, a San Francisco-based metal band, brings a unique darkness to their music, setting them apart from the typical aggression of death metal. Their album, Hole Below, showcases a blend of power and nuance that captivates listeners from the start. The vocals, characterized by deep roars, and the haunting background elements add layers of complexity to their sound.
While death metal often focuses on aggression, Vastum infuses their music with a wider range of emotions, evident in tracks like “In Sickness and In Death.” The album weaves together themes of brutality and ritual abuse, creating a visceral listening experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional death metal constraints. Despite some uniformity in sound, Vastum’s lyrical prowess shines through, elevating Hole Below above standard modern death metal offerings.
Listeners seeking a fresh take on the genre will find Vastum’s approach both compelling and thought-provoking. The band’s ability to balance intensity with lyrical depth sets them apart in a scene dominated by established acts like Morbid Angel and Incantation. Hole Below stands out as a testament to Vastum’s potential to carry the death metal torch forward, offering a refreshing perspective that resonates with both seasoned metalheads and newcomers alike.
Released in 2015 under the label 20 Buck Spin, Hole Below showcases Vastum’s commitment to pushing boundaries within the metal genre. Drawing inspiration from bands like Horrendous and Portal, Vastum’s sound is both familiar and innovative, appealing to a wide range of metal enthusiasts. The album’s blend of raw energy and lyrical sophistication cements Vastum’s position as a band to watch in the evolving landscape of extreme metal.
As the metal scene continues to evolve, Vastum’s unique blend of aggression and nuance offers a refreshing take on the genre. With Hole Below, the band proves that there is still room for innovation and creativity within the realm of death metal. By infusing their music with dark themes and intricate storytelling, Vastum sets themselves apart as a band that is unafraid to explore the depths of musical expression.
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