Evoked are a German death metal band back with their latest EP. This band have made some solid ground over the years, with a trademark classic old school death metal sound. The vocals are very much in favour of early Death, that classic reverb driven sound and howl. From most recent times, a band like Apparition (Esp) would be comparable. There are plenty of pointers for fans of Inhuman Condition for example. The classic US sound.
The opener and title track quite literally bumps all of this up front at the start of the release. Not only that, but the pace increases also brings in the modern game. ‘From the Distance’ pushes the groove element of rotten death metal with a totally infectious and gangrenous addiction for the listener. ‘A Nameless Grave’ slows the tempo down and heralds some immense dynamics, a wall of sound sitting right in front of you with a mix that captures everything with the right balance, even when we increase tempo, it’s all clear to hear. This was down to the recording completed by Marko Sundermann at “That Basement Studio”, whilst the mix is completed elsewhere by Marco Brinkmann at Hellforge Studio. Whilst still on this track, the lead into the first lead break, this is the epitome of good death metal.
‘Behind the Eyes; brings out more capable dynamics and brandishes a true lesson of haunting violence from deep underground. ‘Behind the Eyes’ has a sort of Pestilence sound, a touch thrashier in delivery. The haunting vocals and running barrage of riffs makes me come back to the classics and the trailblazer of this sub-genre of death metal, for which there are many I know, but it sounds beefed up modern but respects the original sound and energy, I feel its perfect style and mix as delivered. The sinister riff that comes out before the solo keeps up the mystique and satisfies the listener whom has a passion for the sinister sounds. The closer ‘Blunt Force Trauma’ delivers to its name, again bridging that gap whilst digging a grave in the process of sinking some cans of beer in a massive graveyard party.
Evoked, “evoke” all the classic death metal traits that made this a ground-breaking scene. Whilst you may think, ah covers, nope, with the modern delivery and use of classic style and vocals, this EP is a killer listen. For death metal lovers, it is essential.
(9/10 Paul Maddison)
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