Monstrosity
Spiritual Apocalypse

When we talk about American death metal (at least the kind that originated in the late '80s and then took root in the '90s), the bands that are often mentioned for their discographic, as well as historical relevance, include Obituary, Deicide, Suffocation, Morbid Angel, or Cannibal Corpse. However, we often forget to mention, among others, a band that has written important pages for the genre.

That band is called Monstrosity, and with "Spiritual Apocalypse," they release their fifth album in almost two decades of career. It is clear that a lack of prolificacy, always paired with a definitive quality of publications (hence the series "few but good"...), and the numerous travails faced by their lineup (a rule from which they did not escape even this time, to such an extent that the only original member left is the drummer and supreme mastermind Lee Harrison) have hindered their journey. However, this does not mean they should be considered a second-tier group. On the contrary, the place that belongs to Monstrosity is in the pantheon of extreme sound, and this is confirmed by the ten new songs recorded at the renowned Morrisound Studios with the support of Jim and Tom Morris, which has given the sound an "old school" imprint (bringing out the brutal aspect to the fullest), even though it is synchronized with today's reality for sound clarity and explosive sharpness in the accelerated parts.

Compared to previous publications, it is necessary to emphasize a greater "freshness" in the riffs, the work of Mark English, who has managed to alternate ruthless phrasings with others, especially in the solos, more melodic, although it cannot be said that there is overall catchiness, as the tracks are extremely intricate and born out of remarkable instrumental technique. The album is dynamic (both in mid-tempo and in tempo shifts), powerful, never redundant, perfectly supported by the vocals of Mike Hrubovcak (ex Vile and Divine Rapture) and is placed midway between classic death (with some progressive leanings towards Death) and brutal passages, highlighting a pronounced personality that significantly impacts the perfect writing and deadly execution of the tracks.