« Malcontent Manifestation Monitoring Prog.«
2013
Aural Fixation with Horror!
Having released their debut full length, “Virgin Reaper” in 2011, U.S. band, INVERTICRUX have recently recorded an EP that certainly will turn heads with its penchant for dramatic, Gothic flare! “Malcontent Manifestation Monitoring Prog.” hits hard and can be heard as a miscreant ode to traditional Heavy Metal mixed with Goth and Blackened Thrash for good measure!
First song, “Sin Be Thy Guide” hears the spirit of old in its fast thrash-like rhythm and Mercyful Fate-isms. What is immediate are the vocals that carry a strong nod to King Diamond in their falsetto and pitch highs and lows, courtesy of Raypissed, vocalist extraordinaire and who also lends his talents to MYSTIC FOREST. Certainly, the theatrics move nicely along on songs, “On Six Limbs” and “Malcontent Manifestation”, the latter of which boasts a slow, doom-like dirge only to be swept away by faster tones to finish!
“Loretta’s Lost Leg” showcases a stirring classical influence; soft soprano vocals cleanly mesmerize the listener before being pummeled by blasting Black/Thrash and an overall unsettling aura. Beautifully played, the intro could be made longer to emphasize the variety a bit more. The song also includes a wild solo and duo high-pitched vocal that’s chilling in its execution. Meanwhile, the tortured angst remains on “Here Fades All Worldly Pleasures” with doom-ridden purpose, while “Attack of the Scarecrow Clowns from Planet Spider” is fierce and has a horror inspired sense of loyalty. Again, dramatic vocals help propel the cut into eclectic pastures, and the narrative that ends recounting an encounter with otherworldly beings, also bemoans gloom!
INVERTICRUX have released a bona-fide “terror” in “Malcontent Manifestation Monitoring Prog.” and though the production is rough around the edges, it is a dirty slice of wickedness, nonetheless. It may not be to everyone’s taste, particularly vocally, but if you’re a fan of SOURCE OF TIDE, GHOST, B.C. or MERCYFUL FATE, then this EP will be satisfying. Enjoy at your own risk!
Standout Tracks: “Sin Be Thy Guide”, “Malcontent Manifestation”, “Loretta’s Lost Leg”
8/10
Chris
