Russian Death Metal maniacs WOMBRIPPER are back with their second album of HM-2 obliteration. Out on October 26th via Memento Mori Records.
A bellowing cacophony of chainsaw riffing and blastbeats drop us right into a melodic and ferocious cascade of brutality, joined by hideously demonic vocals. Immediately Wombripper conjure the sounds of Dismember, Entombed and Grave back in the 90s with their morbid and devastating Death Metal excellence. Aside from the classic Swedeath formula we also see some Gothenburg style melodies akin to At The Gates and Dark Tranquility, giving a bit more complexity to the music while not straying far from the crushing heaviness that is very much at the heart of their sound. The gruesome music continues to churn forth with revoltingly heavy riffs and pummelled drums to back up a vomitous slew of aggressive vocals that add a touch of Floridian style Death Metal to the mix gloriously.
Punishing and dark, the atmosphere of this record is actually rather impressive which is something we do not always get from Swedeath style bands. Though certainly focused mainly on their savage assault, the eeriness they have to offer is fantastic. Thrashing with a frenzied groove that is memorable and impactful, these Russian barbarians certainly know how to create catchy and fury-driven Death Metal with a fairly unique twist on the Swedish sound. Stomping hooks and meaty riffs continue to fuel the fire of rotten brutality while soulful and technical solos add some truly impeccable skill to the primal grooves. This is unquestionably ruthless in its execution which for the amount of melody utilised is certainly impressive.
Grinding on, the tracks continue to spew forth a putrid, palpable darkness that is intoxicating. This is one of those records that is summed up magnificently by its title “Macabre Melodies” which we certainly are given. The deliverance of disciplined melody and tomb-lurking morbidity meet in obliterating harmony to delve into the rotten underbelly of Russia’s underground, showcasing some Death Metal brilliance that is not to be missed by Swedeath lovers. Malicious and unrelenting, these 10 pieces of slimy extremity will get under your skin and into your brain without remorse. A pure storm of totally killer Swedeath artillery that is creepy and musically tight to pack one hell of a punch.
A marvellous second album that delivers the promised slab of “Macabre Melodies” with utmost force. Melting the two main styles of Swedish Death Metal to concoct a reeking cacophony of HM-2 grooves, intricate melodies, pulverising drums and ludicrously gruesome vocals. Certainly something for 90s enthusiasts while also giving itself relevance and value in the current scenes with a varied use of tempos, moods and songwriting abilities. -8/10
Discover more from NATTSKOG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.