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Album Review

WRVTH – “WRVTH” [Album Review]

With so much depth and complexity, the new album from these Californian’s isn’t going to be to everyone’s taste. Read our thoughts inside.

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I have to admit to being somewhat surprised to discover that, when opening track “Harrowing Winds” kicked in after a short intro, I wasn’t going to be subjected to the sort of rubbish thrash/death metal I was expecting. Instead, this self-titled album from the band formerly known as Wrath Of Vesuvius, tugs at a number of musical strings to create a quite magnificent sound.

In fact, even before “Harrowing Winds” has finished, Wrvth have already woven together a sound that is part prog-rock, tech-metal, death metal and black metal. It’s slightly bonkers I have to say but, while it should sound like a bit of a mess, there is something about it that, well, just works. The reason, I think, could be something to do with the fact that Wrvth don’t overdo it by trying to cram too much into their material. Leaving just enough breathing space within each song, things may get a bit mental at times but they don’t get claustrophobic or overpowering.

Whether it’s the haunting, mid-paced atmospherics of “Endless Haze” or the full-force rage of “Lured By Knaves,” Wrvth have the musical nouce to know when to apply the brakes just as much as they know when your senses are ready to be taken to another level. Considering the complexity of their sound, that takes some serious talent and earns Wrvth a huge thumbs up.

Such is the diversity and complexity and range of style used by Wrvth in their material, this isn’t going to be an album for everybody. If you’re looking for a quick fix of textbook metal then you’re very much looking in the wrong place; however, if you want depth, diversity and a challenging, rewarding listen, this could be right up your alley.

Track Listing:

01. Harrowing Winds
02. Malaise
03. Looming Sigils
04. Ongoing Dissension
05. Endless Haze
06. Lured by Knaves
07. Forlorn
08. Larkspur
09. Amber Glow
10. Into Bloom
11. Cease to Exist

Run Time: 55:27
Release Date: June 15, 2015

Check out the song “Into Bloom” here.

I have an unhealthy obsession with bad horror movies, the song Wanted Dead Or Alive and crap British game shows. I do this not because of the sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll lifestyle it affords me but more because it gives me an excuse to listen to bands that sound like hippos mating.

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