Behemoth – Zos Kia Cultus (Here and Beyond)
For the style of modern turbo death metal that the longstanding Behemoth now execute (they used to worship the blacker side of sonic blasphemy), I really like their riff work and overall performance instead of the dryer/uninspired punishment dished out by fellow blast fiends Myrkskog and the like. Behemoth uses the speed very effectively, almost like a 3rd unique guitar part. It’s almost a musical element, on this album and the equally impressive “Satanica” which also exploded with a very interesting/creative approach to turbo riffage. Perhaps a carry over from their black metal years, the music may possess its share of technical Morbid Angel-isms, but Behemoth inject a very colorful thread of melody into their riff warfare and instill its presence with much welcomed variation in the tempo assault (many slow and mid-paced moments of music dwell on this album). For being more careful with their song structures and striving not to blatantly steal another bands sound, delivery, or stylistic ideas, Behemoth, much like the always amazing Nile, have made their own way by actually creating intricate death metal with direction, purpose and musical surprises. The vocals seem a bit dry, but somehow fit in and torment the firestorm of organic death lurching off of “Zos Kia Cultus” perfectly. Add a full and very pristine production, plus some of the best artwork I’ve seen in a while and you have a modern death metal album worthy of your attention. I was beginning to think such an album from this often brutal/unrelenting sub genre no longer existed in 2003. Could Behemoth be evolving into a more essential, well rounded band than their fellow countrymen Vader? – Marty
OLYMPIC RECORDINGS/CENTURY MEDIA
Worm Gear 