16 Feb 2016

Escarnium: "Rex Verminorum"


Shining bright in the depths of Hell
Two of the earliest movers in death metal, and subsequently two of the most influential regional scenes, were the scenes in Florida and Sweden, each cutting to the bone with newfound extremity and their own unique sound. Escarnium from Brazil take after several tendencies, however, combining the evil grooves of Florida, the dirty grit of Sweden, and South American extreme thrash. 

Filled with great riffs, headpounding drums and a rotting old school feel despite the somewhat modern production the group's debut EP "Rex Verminorum" is a short display of absolute death metal power. The Brazilian band comes across as a dedicated and ambitious force to be reckoned with, and if you're ready to embark on a journey through disease-ridden lands covered in death and suffering, Escarnium will definitely scratch that itch.

"Though not soaring to levels of divinity just yet, they are a beacon of light in a sea of mediocrity,"

Though not entirely original or daring in scope, "Rex Verminorum" uncovers powerful resolve and a strong will to create. Lacking ingenuity can easily be excused when the material is as well-written and performed as is the case with Escarnium. Though not soaring to levels of divinity just yet, they are a beacon of light in a sea of mediocrity, seriously outshining most of the competition.

Likening them to similar bands isn't as straight forward as one would think. There are definite elements of bands like Vomitory and Malevolent Creation, but the menacing atmosphere of bands like Cianide and Incantation is also present. Escarnium are never really pushing the speed limits, although fast-paced blastbeats are integral to their sound, especially on the four bonus tracks taken from the "Covered in Decadence" demo from 2009. The shorter burst of speed do serve the purpose of underscoring the highlights of their slower passages.

Despite including demo tracks from a previous release the band has consistency. The Brazilian band should by all means appeal to most death metal fans, regardless of regional preference.

8/10


Released in 2011 by Hellthrasher Productions

Links
Escarnium on FACEBOOK
Escarnium on BANDCAMP
Hellthrasher Productions OFFICIAL SITE

Follow TONEwood on Facebook for daily updates!


What did you think of Escarnium's "Rex Verminorum"?

No comments:

Post a Comment