Let's dive into the world of death metal and explore the latest offering from the iconic band, Monstrosity. With a career spanning over three decades, they've left an indelible mark on the genre, but how does their seventh album, Screams from Beneath the Surface, hold up?
A New Chapter for Monstrosity
Monstrosity, a stalwart of the Floridian death metal scene, has endured and evolved since the late 1980s. While they've always been overshadowed by the giants of that era, their impact and influence are undeniable. The band's latest incarnation sees them with a fresh lineup, including a new guitarist and vocalist, and the question is, can they continue to thrive and innovate?
The Album's Opening Salvo
The album opens with a surprising twist. "Banished to the Skies" takes us into a melodeath realm, reminiscent of Amon Amarth, with an epic undertone. It's a bold move, deviating from their usual death-thrash style, and it certainly grabs your attention. The track sets a dark and brooding tone, with fluid guitar work and hints of Edge of Sanity's vintage sound.
Back to the Brutal Basics
However, the band quickly reverts to their familiar death-thrash roots with "The Colossal Rage." This track is all about savage brutality, with lead pipe-like riffs and a pummeling rhythm. The new vocalist, Ed Webb, delivers a brutal performance, and the riffs carry a distinct Cannibal Corpse and Deicide influence. It's a solid, energetic death metal track that showcases their raw power.
Exploring New Dimensions
"The Atrophied" takes things up a notch with its frenetic pace and thrash-infused segments. The song contrasts these moments with slower, epic Viking metal passages, creating an intriguing dynamic. The solos are a highlight, beautifully melodic and colorful, adding a unique twist to the caveman-like intensity.
A Melting Pot of Styles
Monstrosity seems to be experimenting with various styles on this album. While their core death metal sound is evident, they've added layers of epic melodeath and doom elements. "Fortunes Engraved in Blood" is a prime example, blending Floridian death metal with macho melodeath and even a touch of prog. The result is a testament to their songwriting and instrumental prowess.
The Album's Creative Direction
The remainder of Screams from Beneath the Surface sees the band playing with these different elements, sometimes more subtly, sometimes more prominently. "The Thorns" is a darker, doom-laden track that stands out, while "The Dark Aura" channels the spirit of Bolt Thrower with its slow, powerful chugs and grinding intensity. Overall, the album delivers competent and well-crafted death metal, attempting to push creative boundaries, albeit in small ways.
A Talented Lineup
The new vocalist, Ed Webb, brings his extensive experience to the table, delivering a classic, burly death metal roar. He can also unleash effective blackened screams, though at times, he may feel a bit generic. The guitarists, Matt Barnes and Justin Walker, showcase their talent with nasty death metal riffs, ragged thrash leads, and impressive, almost neoclassical solo work, harkening back to the glory days of James Murphy.
Final Thoughts
Screams from Beneath the Surface is a solid addition to the death metal canon, with a few standout tracks and some interesting twists. While it may not make many year-end lists, Monstrosity continues to prove their longevity, adaptability, and willingness to experiment. This is a band that refuses to rest on their laurels, and that's something to be admired. Give it a spin, and you'll be treated to some raw, energetic death metal with a few surprises along the way.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
