Hard to believe it's been roughly 20 years since underground New York death/thrash metal sensations Prime Evil quietly disappeared from the scene. Well, singer Andy Eichorn and guitarist Mile Usifer resurrected the band in 2011 and Evilution is their brand new 3 song EP, signaling the return of one of the most promising and groundbreaking acts of the mid to late '80s extreme metal scene. Back in the day, Prime Evil were delivering their mix of early death metal and thrash way before it became common to do so, and now here in 2012 they are just as brutal, just as fast, and just as technical as they were back then. "Crucifixion Aftermath" is about as catchy as death metal gets, with Eichorn's mix of perfectly understandable growls & screams stabbing through Usifers razor sharp, pummeling riffs and plenty of jackhammer programmed drumming, which was performed here on the EP by Dave Powers. Deep, crushing riffs drive the lethal "Barbarick Rites", as Usifer unleashes an all out onslaught of guitar savagery, including some menacing pinch harmonics, while Eichorn rips into the horror themed lyrical imagery. "Evilution Decree" is fast and furious, with Eichorn mixing it up quite well, delivering throaty growls and histrionic screams and Usifer checking in with a wild, Slayer influenced solo, all culminating with Eichorn's "become the final sacrifice" scream to end this kick ass EP.
On the downside, there's only about 8+ minutes of music here, which is disappointing because the quality of what you get is so high you'll be left wanting much more. Also, the drum programming can sound a tad sterile at times, but it's well exectuted. Eichorn and Usifer have recently fleshed out the line-up with a new guitarist, bassist, and drummer, and are planning live shows in the New York area, so definitely be on the lookout for them and check out this killer EP as well. Welcome back guys!
Track Listing
1) Crucifixion Aftermath (2:37)
2) Barbarick Rites (2:45)
3) Evilution Decree (3:03)
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