Suffocation rises from the shadows, brandishing their seasoned skill in “Hymns from the Apocrypha,” an exciting tribute to their long heritage, as the dark chords of antiquity resonate afresh. Suffocation broke into what was then a relatively limited 1990s death metal scene, instantly grabbing listeners with their distinctive combination of aggression and soundscape exploration. From Frank Mullen’s genre-defining vocals to being the influence for many of today’s bands, Suffocation has established their spot among the finest of all time. After thirty years, Suffocation returns with the ninth installment of their long-awaited narrative, with its newest leader, Ricky Meyers, at the helm.
While it’s no secret that Meyers has some huge shoes to fill following Mullen’s departure, we can fairly state that Rick Meyers has taken significant measures to secure Suffocation’s loaded legacy. The latest release from the seasoned band, “Hymns from the Apocrypha,” is a relentless bombardment of auditory mayhem that plunges the listener into a dark pit of violent death metal. The album throws you into a world of relentless aggressiveness, from the thundering blast rhythms to Meyer’s guttural screams.
The guitar work is particularly impressive, displaying technical proficiency with searing riffs and discordant melodies that create an aura of impending dread. The bass, a tremendous force, gives a menacing depth to the entire musical environment, while the drumming – a never-ending onslaught of double bass and sophisticated fills, carries the songs along with unwavering vigor.
“Hymns from the Apocrypha,” the title tune, tackles themes of existential dread and the grotesque, wonderfully combining intricacy with accessibility. “Delusions of Mortality,” another masterpiece, is both academically fascinating and emotionally compelling, “Denied divine transcendency / Amongst those who decreed enslavement.” Each song develops like a nightmare voyage through a dismal landscape, presenting stunning pictures of despair and destruction.
The production is raw and uncompromising, capturing the spirit of Suffocation and reinventing it. Violent without compromising its quality, the raw energy of the band’s performance shows through to the end. The mix is thick, immersing the listener in a sonic vortex that demands this full immersion.
While “Hymns from the Apocrypha” does not reinvent the death metal wheel, it does give a hefty dose of uncontrolled anger and melodic skill. Suffocation demonstrates once again that they are masters of their trade, releasing an album that will please longtime fans and reassure them that their favorite band’s skill has not wavered. Prepare for a relentless auditory onslaught that will leave you with a lingering feeling of gloom and misery.
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