ALBUM REVIEW: The Divine Deception – Khabal
Progressive death metal outfit KHABAL have amassed a considerable following since their inception in 2017 but it is now time for their long awaited debut in the form of The Divine Deception which is out now via independent release. Will this release meet expectations?
Aura wastes little time, acquainting you with a downtuned bludgeoning of vicious riffing and aggressive growls. Swarming atmospherics and intense blast beats also join the mix, providing a powerful onslaught on the senses. The Divine (The Object Of Desire) continues the dissonant destruction with crunchy guitar work and impressive drum fills. The tempo and pacing keeps you on your toes as it chops and changes through various haunting phases.
The Voice Of Jericho offers up some chilling, ominous tones that bring forth some rapid fire drum beats. A venomous growl is unleashed sending shivers down your spine as it meshes meticulously with the crushing ferocity. Somehow Monologue is even more chaotic than its predecessors. Relentlessly battering you with feverish waves of carnage. Whilst being downright sadistic the hefty grooves are devilishly addictive.
Venator immediately feels unsettling as it gears up for another round of its aural assault. The powerful hooks are so moreish that you can’t deny their charm. The Last Breath has no intention of offering you any mercy, offering up additional punishment with an explosive package of blast beats and guttural savagery. Just when you thought KHABAL couldn’t become any more demonic the closing segments prove to be utterly barbaric.
Mors Vincit Omnia clocks in at just shy of eleven minutes. You may be wondering how on earth you are going to survive this track unscathed? Your best bet is to relax and let the darkness take hold. There is absolutely zero room for respite or compassion found within its monolithic arrangement. From skin searing screams to intricately orchestrated layering this is one hell of a rollercoaster and a befitting end to this journey.
With the abundance of talent on display in the world of metal these days, it is very rare that an album will leave you feeling stunned or almost lost for words but The Divine Deception is a deeply provoking and immersive experience that requires your full attention to appreciate the sheer level of construction that has gone into this release. KHABAL have devised a monster of a release that throws you into a frenzy from the start and refuses to loosen its grip. This will certainly leave a lasting impression.
Rating: 9/10
The Divine Deception is out now via self-release.
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