Churning out some of the best in European deathly thrash for nearly thirty years – legendary French crew Loudblast are back with ‘Burial Ground’ – their seventh studio album and debut release for Listenable Records.
If you’re not familiar with Loudblast then you’re missing out – this group was one of the most influential and pioneering metal bands in Europe throughout the early and mid 90’s touring extensively with such acts as Death & Coroner. Frontman / guitarist Stephane Buriez is the sole original member and he puts in a blinding performance on this album as do drummer Herve Coquerel, bass player Alex Lenormand and former Taake live guitarist, Drakhian.
The band display a solid blend of classic and modern death metal influences on this record and it is so well written and diverse, it transcends being just ‘death metal’ or ‘thrash metal’.
The band are at their heaviest yet catchiest best on this seventh LP with opener ‘A Bloody Oath’ being a prime example. Hooks-a-plenty too on ‘Darkness Will Abide’. Both tracks full of chunky riffs, ripping solos and great vocals. Don’t let that fool you into thinking this is all happy clappy because it most certainly isn’t. Loudblast have a totally heavy and oppressive atmosphere going on, due mainly to Stephane’s layered vocals and some downright morbid guitar work in places.
‘Burial Ground’ benefits from having a massive production, very clear yet organic sounding and very in your face. The overall feel reminds me a bit of Fleshgod Apocalypse (although much more mid paced and minus the keyboard wankery), although I’m sure many will disagree.
Loudblast have a really epic feel to them on this record (album closer ‘The Path’ – what a song) more than on their previous outings I love listening to this on headphones whilst trapped on the daily scum-shovel to work, though I do find myself scowling a lot and headbanging in a suit while sitting down does make you look a plum!
It’s great to see such a legendary band back in the racks. Loudblast have evolved into an extremely modern and fresh sounding band whilst still staying true to their roots and how many bands can do that after all this time?
(8.5/10 Mark Eve)
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