Starting life in 2013 as Distillator, this Netherlands band transformed themselves in 2020 into Cryptosis. With themes about technology and the future, the band has looked to expand and grow their sound on new album “Bionic Swarm”.
The dramatic “Overture 2149” sets up the barnstorming “Decypher” with its super clean, highly technical and frenetic pace. Twists come from every corner and with “Death Technology”, there’s a sense of a cleaner sounding Voivod. This is a totally immersive listening experience. Rattling, sharp percussion drives everything forward. “Prospect Of Immortality” is a slow builder with a seething undercurrent of rage. A heavy riff and swirling lead guitar sit atop some urgent drumming.
A very “Reign In Blood” era Slayer churn appears on “Transcendence” with a nod to “Piece By Piece” in the aggressive riffs. Marco Prij’s drumming is a constant force with a machine gun-like attack. The punchy and feral “Game Of Souls” keeps the pace going but some of the best is saved for last on closing track “Flux Divergence” where Laurens Houvast on vocals let’s out a scream straight from the Tom Araya book of pain. Shredding lead guitar and highly technical playing cap off an album that contains some real power.
Wrapped inside mind boggling, futuristic artwork and with a running time a little under 40 minutes, “Bionic Swarm” is a thrasher’s delight and shows a band exploring new territory to go with their new moniker. Worth checking out.
(7.5/10 Johnny Zed)
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