AMORAL - Decrowning

AMORAL
Decrowning
Candlelight Records
8/10




Bottom-heavy, technical death metal bands often sound stagnant, with their inspiration stuck back in 1996 and their motivation simply being the emulation of great artists that have come before them. Amoral proves to be a exception to that rule. Although Decrowning often appears to be a collision with early In Flames and mid-career (Rust In Peace) Megadeth, a closer auditory inspection reveals that the group’s sound manifests in a similar manner to Slipknot during certain moments as well, however Amoral is certainly more antagonistic than either of those two bands.

However, the aggressive approach of Amoral is often most engaging when the group slips into a completely original domain, as the often do along the course of this solid album. Guitar aficionados will be quickly drawn to this release due to Amoral’s uncanny ability to craft memorable and categorically headbangable riffing that also is noteworthy from a technical standpoint.

Crisp guitar tones and a full mix give the instrumentation of Amoral a deadly appeal and it’s safe to say that most fans of intense precisely proficient death metal will find a great deal to enjoy here. Harsh and abrasive anti-melodies collide with astute chord voicings and dramatic instrumentation during the title track, a number that pushes the scope of the band’s voice forward and establishes a strong individual identity. For Amoral, it’s not an option to conjure up boring, patterned pap.

It’s evident these Helsinki natives are well versed in advanced metal techniques with “Tiebreaker” being weighty, but certainly non-formulaic. Harsh vocals that at many times seem more hardcore than death will fit in well with what’s commonly accepted as quality, intense metal vociferation today and the existence of remarkably skilled guitar solos effectively seal these ten tracks’ credibility with discerning metalheads.

Mandatory for fans of Mustaine and a keen idea for most others, this album is a perfect example of the direction extreme bands should look up to in the present day and age.


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