Thrash!!! I'm sure the editor vetoed one-word reviews a while ago, but if they were allowed, that would have been it. This however is not thrash in the sense of the old “Big Four” (Metallica, Anthrax, Megadeth and Slayer) but closer to the evilness and speed of bands like Dark Angel and the mighty German trinity of Destruction, Kreator and Sodom.
Sounds of the Underground
This Texan band have enjoyed a long and admired career in the underground realms being released to the world on cult French label Osmose, and now after a hiatus of sorts they enjoy a new label, new line up and a chance to regain their crown and show it to new listeners.
Black Thrash Attack
Similar in sound to bands (that Absu probably influenced) like Destroyer 666 and Aura Noir if you need a frame of reference. For those that don't, whirlwind black thrash is the order of the day, and similar to Melechesh (with whom Absu have a link via longstanding member Proscriptor) in that ancient civilizations and cultures are the influence for much of the sound, atmosphere and lyrics.
The imagery is often so astonishing, it sounds like they have a supernatural force driving the creative aspect of Absu. Maybe its the sometimes epilepsy inducing blast of drums. Seriously, the dumbfounding speed and trickery of the drums is unbelievable and the footwork of Proscriptor McGovern is drool inducing at times.
By far the catchiest little bastard on this record is the penultimate song “Ye Uttuku Spells”, with a mid-paced neck-snapper of a main reprised riff, and a barrage of steaming pace in-between. The most tangential track would be “...of the Dead Who Never Rest in Their Tombs...” which diverts itself to some Amorphis style wig-out.
A Little Progression Never Hurt
Occasionally a song will progress above the murky tempest of thrash and progress to surreal and progressive realms, a obvious example would be the middle adventure section of 'Sceptre Command'. This time around there are also vocals that are a little less harsh, but this does not detract from the impact of the music overall.
All the qualities that made Absu stand out from the herd are back and in abundance. No messing around, just 'to the point' songs all accompanied by essentially well placed groove and eastern-style licks. Yes, Tara (2001) and the Absu of old may seem a long time ago, but none of the passion for integrity and finesse has dissipated.
