Gorefest

Not a lot of bands can pull off the traditional Death Metal style. Not unless they’re from Europe that is. Gorefest is a Dutch band from Zeeland, so you do the math. Formed way back in 1989, the year I was born, Gorefest have been tearing apart Europe for 17 years. Performing along side the likes of Carcass, they have to be good! And good is a fucking understatement. With 13 separate albums, EP’s, and demo tapes, La Muerte is the latest. The band members themselves are Jan Chris de Koeyer (Vocals/Bass), Frank Harthoorn (Guitar), Boudewijn Vincent Boneblack (Guitar), and Ed Warby (Drums).

First up on the album is “For The Masses.” Death Metal just wouldn’t be Death Metal without a vocalist with a low-pitched growl. Jan’s voice has got to be one of the deepest in Death Metal today. His vocals stand apart from the instrumental, adding some distinction to the tracks. Ed’s drum rhythm is sick, with no faults or alterations that shouldn’t be there… his drum line is tight.

Sixth on the album is “The Call.” The track opens up with Jan playing bass alongside with Ed; all without any guitar at the beginning. Not many bands are brave enough to do that, but I think it adds a certain edge to the song. Frank and Boudewijn are rocking the shit in this song. The guitar riffs sounds eerie and possess an intenseness that is near impossible to describe.

The last track on the album “La Muerte” is only an instrumental, but the track is 9 minutes of concentrated mayhem. Most instrumental tracks are boring and drag on, but “La Muerte” actually grabbed my attention quite a few times. The track is like a hook grabbing you by the eyelid and dragging you down until you say Uncle.

By and large, the album was very well played. The band hasn’t given into the mainstream bullshit that a lot of bands seem to be doing lately. I’m proud to have reviewed this masterpiece. I give this album a 9.4/10.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. For the Masses
02. When the Dead Walk the Earth
03. You Could Make Me Kill
04. Malicious Intent
05. Rogue State
06. Call
07. Of Death and Chaos
08. Man to Fall
09. Exorcism
10. ‘Til Fingers Bleed
11. New Gods
12. La Muerte

Run Time: 59:56