Brutal Metal's Bloody Onslaught: A Review of Vertiginous' 'Incessant Affliction'
The Indonesian metal duo Vertiginous has unleashed a brutal assault on the senses with their sophomore album, 'Incessant Affliction'. Prepare for a bloodbath, as these guys don't hold back!
A Ruthless Debut
Following their debut 'Reek of Putrefaction', Vertiginous continues their relentless pursuit of auditory violence. The album opens with a track that perfectly encapsulates the band's approach—a relentless, inhuman onslaught. Imagine a mix of early Suffocation, Devourment, and Cannibal Corpse, and you'll get a sense of the sonic carnage.
What I find intriguing is the production choice to push everything to the forefront. It's a deliberate decision, ensuring the music hits you like a sledgehammer. This is not a polished, mainstream sound; it's raw, unapologetic, and designed to pulverize.
A Bloody Blur
Here's the catch: the album's intensity can make it a bit of a blur. Each track is a maelstrom of pummeling drums, frenzied guitars, and tortured vocals, leaving you breathless. But this very ferocity makes it hard to distinguish one song from the next. It's like being caught in a whirlwind of metal madness, where individual moments struggle to leave a lasting impression.
Personally, I'd have loved more dynamic contrast and riff development to give each song its own identity. Bands like Cryptopsy, Skinless, and Dying Fetus excel at this, ensuring their brutality is not just relentless but also memorable. Vertiginous has the raw power, but could benefit from a touch more compositional finesse.
Bass-ic Instincts
One aspect that stands out is the bass guitar, which, when audible, adds a refreshing dimension to the chaos. It's a shame it doesn't play a more prominent role throughout, as it could have provided the necessary anchor in the sea of sonic mayhem. Imagine a ship in a storm, with the bass as the sturdy hull keeping everything afloat.
Brutality with a Catch
Despite these critiques, 'Incessant Affliction' is a solid offering in the brutal death metal genre. Each song is a killer in its own right, dripping with venomous energy. However, the album's strength is also its weakness—the relentless brutality can make it a challenging listen, especially for those seeking more than just a bloody good time.
In conclusion, Vertiginous has crafted an album that will satisfy fans of extreme metal, but it may not leave a lasting impression on casual listeners. It's a fine line between infectious and overwhelming, and 'Incessant Affliction' teeters on that edge. Will you succumb to the affliction, or will it leave you longing for a more nuanced approach? That's the beauty of music—it's all about personal taste and perspective.
