BY STEVE THIRIOT
Following a storied history of technical excellence and sheer sonic brutality, Cryptopsy returns with As Gomorrah Burns—a visceral plunge into a cavern of unrelenting darkness. Under the banner of Nuclear Blast, this album showcases a matured understanding of their sound and an evolution that challenges the boundaries they previously set for themselves.
From the beginning, Cryptopsy seems to push the envelope of their already expansive sound. One can't help but feel the weight of frontman Matt McGachy's introspection—questioning if they have gone too far into the abyss of darkness. However, the journey of this album is in the seamless way it brings the bleak and the groove together, very much within the 'Cryptopsy spectrum'.
Lascivious Undivine - The album begins with a storm, a relentless cascade of riffs and growls. At under four minutes, it offers a tantalizing taste of what’s to come—ferocious and to the point.
In Abeyance - Compact yet explosive, this track transitions swiftly from one section to the next, leaving listeners grappling for a foothold in its ferocity. Godless Deceiver - The relentless tempo is punctuated by moments of eerie silence, a chilling reminder of the darkness the band is flirting with. McGachy's growls paint a vivid image, blending seamlessly with the instrumentation. Ill Ender - A beautifully crafted masterclass in tension-building, this track is perhaps has the most satisfying riffs on the album. It ebbs and flows between extreme aggression and atmospheric breaks.
Flayed The Swine - The groove is at the forefront here. Cryptopsy showcases their ability to meld technical prowess with foot-tapping rhythms, resulting in an engaging aural experience. The Righteous Lost - Pure chaos! it loses none of the intensity Cryptopsy is renowned for. Obeisant - This track revels in its complexity while still pushing the boundaries. The transitions are impeccable, leaving one in awe of their musicianship. Praise The Filth - The culmination of the album's journey, it's an epic finale. Clocking in at nearly six minutes, it explores multiple layers and emotions, representing the duality of darkness and groove that the band aimed for.
As Gomorrah Burns is evidence of Cryptopsy's willingness to evolve while staying true to their roots. It's Dark, it's challenging, but it's also groovy and accessible in it's own unique way. New and old fans alike will find something to latch onto, making it a worthy addition to the band's already impressive discography. I can't wait for metal community to listen to this album when it drops September 8th.
Pick up the album from Nuclear Blast Records September 8th 2023
Listen to 2 Tracks now on SPOTIFY