ALBUM REVIEW: The Final Revelation Of Abaddon – Riexhumation

When you think about the breakout metal bands in Italy your mind instantly gravitates towards the more symphonic/gothic side of the spectrum such as LACUNA COIL and RHAPSODY OF FIRE, but as the years have progressed they have produced some fantastic releases from the more extreme realms with the likes of HOUR OF PENANCE and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE proudly flying the flag. RIEXHUMATION are by no means novices to their craft but despite forming in 2009 they were yet to release a full-length effort. The Final Revelation Of Abaddon is hot off the press via Lavadome Productions and is poised to show the world just what this collective are made of.

The ominous, brooding Intro offers up an unnerving slice of dissonance which leads into the punishing opening of Inbreeding A Final Form In The Flesh. A vicious guttural blast follows suit alongside a wave of ferocious blast beats to set the tone. Downtuned, demonic riffing also joins the fold to create an intense soundscape. Take The Throne Of Enlil takes a slower, stomping demeanour in the initial stages which hits just as hard. It doesn’t take long for the momentum to begin surging upward. Conflagration Mantra keeps the monstrous onslaught in full swing with swift riffing and equally barbaric drum work.

Manifestation Of The Horned-Head Presence adopts an intriguing mid-tempo approach which kind of throws you off guard as death metal tends to gravitate towards either side of the scale. Impressive lead work takes its opportunity to shine and elevate the track.

Ascension XIV feels particularly dark, with a methodical yet inviting pacing. The commanding vocal presence really hits the mark here. Further instances of potent lead work add to the gloomy vibe. The Vectorcvlt notches thing up a gear with rapid fire drum beats and powerful guitar work. The well executed transitions in style keep things exciting and unpredictable.

Embrace Nihility shows no sign of this release running out of steam as it charges on towards the finish line with additional rounds of quickfire instrumentation. Triumph Of Perfect Darkness saves the most chilling track for last, implementing some doom drenched groove to proceedings. Despite being the longest strong by some stretch, it keeps you invested throughout.

There are plenty of twists and turns within The Final Revelation Of Abaddon to keep you engaged and the quality stays consistent from front to back. Whilst it may not completely sweep you off your feet, it is a solid slab of no-frills death metal which to a lot of people will be exactly what the doctor ordered. A commendable effort for a debut full length release.

Rating: 8/10

The Final Revelation Of Abaddon is out now via Lavadome Productions.

Like RIEXHUMATION on Facebook.