Demo
Unsigned/Independent
2013
Including members of MYTHOLOGY, New York’s SUNDER boasts Black Metal that combines blistering guitar fuzz with melodic and often rousing rhythms heard on last year’s premier demo. Lo-fi and building in momentum and drama, much of the material is clearly inspired by emotionally, depressive odes which many other compatriots bathe themselves in as well.
First track, “Where Power Once Dwelled” begins with a murmur, a slow burn rising in “action” to a steady beat eventually becoming a cascade of white noise and which is wholly satisfying. Sounding somber, yet proud; drone-like yet spinning out of control as a blast beat emerges later, the song clearly exercises a guitar ambiance and decrees how the demo, in its entirety, will sound.
Repetitive simple riffs give the demo a “trance-like” feel as “The Ancient Hall” revels in an almost up tempo drive reminiscent of older FORGOTTEN WOODS, marked noticeably by the bassline and drum pattern. “Forgotten Wilds” brings the listener back down again to a slower groove before executing a blast once more.
Vocally, there are two who ignite the caustic flame, Lord Gallows who provides the higher pitched rasp and Raithus who plays the guitars and bass. The straight forward song structures bring the demo to a close in “To Dispel the Ignorance” which rounds out this four song release in its “no-frills” blueprint.
Coming in at approx. 34 mins, SUNDER’s demo showcases all the hallmarks of earthy, depressive Black Metal and although the production value isn’t high (the drums could be made a little louder) the infectious rhythms and miserable darkness shine through. Sure to please many fans who appreciate older BURZUM, FORGOTTEN WOODS or even newer act, WOODS OF DESOLATION, New York’s SUNDER is worth checking out!
Standout Tracks: “Where Power Once Dwelled”, “The Ancient Hall”
7.5/10
Chris
