A commemoration of classic death metal and beyond.

In the realm of death metal and its signature sound, Gruesome’s new album, released in 2025 by the title, Silent Echoes, does not deviate from the genre’s fierce, signature sound. The heavy metal album’s style is both sophisticated and ferocious, spontaneously displaying more complex sounds along with menacing riffs and a fast tempo. Moreover, the band’s drummer, Gus Rios and vocalist, Matt Harvey, bring a new element to the band’s overall heavy sound.

In addition to playing drums, Rios was a friend of the members of the band, Death. The band, which was predominantly known in the 1980s-90s, also serves as a musical influence for  Gruesome’s entire lineup. There are four band members in Gruesome: Robin Mazen (Bass), Daniel Gonzalez (Lead Guitar), Rios (Drums) and Harvey (vocals and guitar). Ever since Gruesome’s formation in 2014, their powerhouse sound has been crafted from Death’s influence on the group in addition to death metal itself.

The second track, a “Darkened Window,” is a prime example of Gruesome’s songwriting prowess. It begins with a variation in its introduction, followed by blistering solos throughout the song, on top of segments of rapid paced repetitive notes. The angry and animalistic vocals describe looking beyond a mirror or being trapped inside some kind of personal hell.

Another song featured on the Silent Echoes album, is “Voice Within the Void (Astral Oceans),” an instrumental that showcases more fast paced rhythm and lead guitars. In addition to the pummeling riffs, there are melodies that add a dynamic for this dark track. Additionally, Paul Masvidal from the band, Cynic, is a guest guitarist on this piece and adds to the intricate guitar work with a noteworthy solo.

The seventh track on the album, “Fragments of a Psyche,” is another death metal song of classical nature – it could be viewed as Gruesome’s most original work. The song begins with guitar solos erupting erratically throughout the song, giving the listener a sophisticated impression of Gruesome’s guitar work (complemented by throbbing bass). “Fragments of a Psyche” also paints a picture of darkness through their lyrics about “life and death,” giving the song another layer of depth.

Ultimately, the experienced metal quartet’s album, Silent Echoes lends much of its sound and influence to the band, Death, and will not disappoint most fans of the death metal genre. Furthermore, Gruesome is an extension of the1980s and 1990s death metal scene. If you are familiar with the iconic sound of that time period or even just curious, then Gruesome’s album, Silent Echoes, will give you a vivid glimpse into the world of classic death metal.