We don’t often get singles to review here, much less on CD, so I guess it’s only right to give it a blast. Oh, it’s listed as an EP but with just two tracks and a combined length of 6:18 that’s a single guys. But mastered by Dan Swano, no less.
The Australian band, formed 2017 so still new, Rituals play melodic death metal. Not the exuberant high melody and clean vocal style of say Countless Skies, more the realms of earlier Insomnium and Amon Amarth with At The Gates thrown bodily into the sound.
‘Insect’ begins with a fine, scampering riff with a melodic chorus that is…worryingly familiar. Someone will tell me what it reminds me of eventually but, hey, it’s an earworm. Spritely played and with a production that keeps the vocals nice and gruff. Definitely one for At The Gates fans…
‘Oracle’ begins slower, but soon hits the next gear with enthusiastic drums sprinting away and a lovely lead break too. Again, the same influences as the first track, and as adept musically too.
A nice little showcase really. Have to say at this moment in their development and with only six minutes to judge they very much sound like the sum of their influences at present, particularly Slaughter Of The Soul period At The Gates, and their individual voice is. Yet fully formed. However, the playing is solid and you can sense a drive here so I’m sure that voice will come.
If melodeath is your thing, lend them an ear. Not bad.
(5.5/10 Gizmo)
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