Classic is a word that gets chucked around an awful lot these days with many people claiming various, generally unheard of albums as undeniable testaments to Metal’s history. Sure enough bands may well be influential in their own right but what makes them classic? To me a classic band or album would be one that not only stands the test of time but has also shaped, touched and influenced a genre beyond reproach. Even a scene can have a worldwide impact, a collective of bands all aiding each other in a rise to stardom, thus we are presented with the Floridian Death Metal scene.
Godfathers of the Floridian scene are the Death Metal titans Deicide, who hold the classic torch with ease. You will be hard pushed to find an essential Death Metal list that doesn’t contain at least one of this bands albums. This said Deicide’s history has been mixed, the early days as is often the case are generally the most raved about, following this the band entered somewhat of a lull with their 2000’s era. For me I have enjoyed all era’s of Deicide and would even go as far as to put 2011’s To Hell With God as a modern classic, so imagine my joy at the release of the 2018 monument Overtures Of Blasphemy.
If you’ve kept up to date with Deicide you’ll be very much aware of their OSDM edge being draped in modern flare, but one thing I enjoy about this is the relevancy of the band. They have refused to repeat themselves and have soldiered onward with a brand of Death Metal that is unparalleled. Overtures Of Blasphemy is no exception to this rule, the massive battering Death Metal riffs and machine gun drumming whilst lacking variation a lot of the time are backed by the putrid growls of the mighty Glen Benton. The anti-religious themes of Deicide reign like a demonic shadow over the holy land, bringing utter Death Metal mastery.
Deicide aren’t afraid of being catchy either Compliments Of Christ, All That Is Evil and Defying The Sacred all exhibit wondrous musicianship, whether it be through crushing riffs or manic solos, these songs prove there is more to Deicide than a barbaric atmosphere. Lyrically this is as catchy as ever for Deicide, Crawled From The Shadows, Seal The Tomb Below and Flesh, Power, Dominion are all examples of the bands relentless anthemic edge that has resonated since their debut, showing that although the band have progressed they haven’t let their songwriting slip.
Overall Overtures Of Blasphemy is another anti-religious nail in the coffin of the saints, a powerhouse and an aid to Decides ever evolving and intriguing discography. Whilst modern Deicide may not be for everyone to me it is always enjoyable, they create albums even now that aren’t just good, they make you want to listen time and time again, and I guess that is what makes Deicide so classic.
(8/10 George Caley)
Leave a Reply