Some people have a distorted idea about the differences between North American and European Death Metal Schools, but one must have in mind that both axis evolved at the same time, but in different ways: European Death Metal evolved by the mix of Thrash Metal with Hardcore of those days; on USA, things happened in the same way, but using a strong feeling inherited from Traditional Heavy Metal as well (and that European bands used influences from German Thrash Metal acts, and USA, they used influences from North American Thrash Metal, namely
EXODUS and
SLAYER). And even today, bands with an Old School approach appear on USA, as
HASEROT, a quintet that comes storming with
“Throne of Malice”.
Their musical work is really focused on an Old School Death Metal model, using influences inherited from USA and Europe Schools of the 90’s, but with a difference: these guys have a melodic basting appearing in a subjective form in many moments (some lines with such aspect can be heard on
“Incantations at Dusk”). And one more thing: the band doesn’t live off of what was done in the past, but breathe a new life on the way they play, so beware of their energy and aggressiveness! The recordings were done by
Ricardo Contreras at Lucky Run Studio, and the mixing and mastering are signed by the hands of
Dan Swanö (who worked at Unisound AB). It’s an Old School Death Metal EP, with that particular form of sounding, but in an updated form. It’s the best of both worlds ate the same time, son enjoy (including the amazing artwork of
Juanjo Castellano for the cover).
“Forging the Ossuary” has that classical Death Metal tempos contrasting with slow parts, showing a strong and brutal rhythmic set created by bass guitar and drums. On
“Incantations at Dusk” they show extremely catchy moments built upon rhythmic contrasts (but the riffs and solos are really amazing), the same elements shown on
“Mark of Sedition” (with some rly Hardcore/Punk Rock influences, and with very good vocals). Being faster and permeated with catchy arrangements,
“Throne of Malice” is that kind of song that can make heads shake ‘till death. And
“Through Pain to Conquest” that recovers the classic Hardcore charming touches, with a solid rhythmic appeal.
After listening to
“Throne of Malice”, one can ask why in the blazes
HASEROT didn’t release a full album?
Songwriting: 9
Musicianship: 8
Memorability: 9
Production: 9