I mean, come on, if you are a death metal fan, how can you not love that amazing Raymond Swanland cover art to The Barren Throne? Seems only natural that no release from the folks at Unique Leader leaves the shop without some of the most mind altering artwork on any metal label, and this sophomore release from Iceland act Beneath is no exception. These guys know how to mash & bash with their blistering display of brutal & technical death metal, starting with the punishing opener "Depleted Kingdom, which kicks off with some engaging mellow guitar arpeggios before the blasting starts. Plenty of churning, technical riffs and piledriver drumming, plus some evil growling, makes sure you know the type of ride to be prepared for. It doesn't let up on "Chalice", another raging maelstrom of crushing death metal. The powerful title track is a must hear for any fan of Nile (glorious riffs on this one), while "Putrid Seed of Affection" has some of the most complex arrangements on the album, as the dizzying riffs and intense drum blasting create some deliciously brutal sounds. Other highlights include the more textured "Sovereign Carnal Passion", the epic progressive death metal of "Sky Burial", and the blazing, technical mayhem of "Mass Extinction Codex".
Unique Leader is one of those labels that you can always count on to deliver quality death metal time and time again. The Barren Throne is a stellar example of how brutality and technicality can work well together, as Beneath have crafted some really memorable & punishing tunes here that satisfy those who crave extreme heaviness and complexity. Well done.
Track Listing
1. Depleted Kingdom
2. Chalice
3. The Barren Throne
4. Putrid Seed of Affection
5. Iron Jaw
6. Sovereign Carnal Passion
7. Sky Burial
8. Veil of Mercy
9. Mass Extinction Codex
10. Storm Drainer
11. Unearthed
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