Omnium Gatherum - Slasher

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Finnish Melodic Death Metal band, OMNIUM GATHERUM, are OG’s on the metal scene. After 25+ years, they will release their newest EP, Slasher, June 2^nd, 2023. The band itself was founded in Autumn of 1996, this band takes its influences from bands such as IN FLAMES, AT THE GATES, DISSECTION, DARK TRANQUILITY. But also, deftly adds nuance with influences such as MEGADETH, and IRON MAIDEN. After a ever shifting lineup, the band has settled today with its current members; Markus Vanhala on guitars, Aapo Koivisto on keyboards, Jukka Pelkonen singing vocals, Mikko Kivisto on bass, Atte Pesonen on drums, and finally Nick Corle on guitars.

“Slasher” - A haunting intro rolls into harder, but Melodic chords on guitar. Death Metal vocals that border on Progressive at times. Lyrically the song is written about the inner state, asking us if there is a reason to be so dead inside? To ponder, “there is no shadow in the dark”. So, dear readers, if you find that you are at rock bottom, this is the song for you. An anthem of hope, amidst a storm of raging instrumental metal. “Maniac (Cover Version)” - Angsty and lustful rage, a mania within; screaming forth the injustices of life. Slashing blindly with the razor edge of metal musical notes, clashing violently with deep and growly vocals. With the addition of a couple clean vocals in the chorus, keeping with the Melodic side of the band. “Lovelorn” - Opens with a certain longing, loss of hope, emptiness. The hollow echo of empty halls. Slowly low vocals fill its corridors, increasing in intensity to a roar of power. True to its title, this song imparts that lovelorn feeling with ease. Who amongst us has not longed for a lover from the past at some time? This song is that feeling!

Slasher is a great EP, pleasant on the metal eardrums. OMNIUM GATHERUM delivered a power packed lineup of songs once again, as such it is definitely worth listening to.

Songwriting: 10
Musicianship: 10
Memorability: 10
Production: 10