EP REVIEW: Order & Chaos – Karybdis

UK based melodic death metal outfit KARYBDIS have been swarming around the underground for a number of years, steadily building up their following via a handful of festival appearances along their journey. After a few chops and changes in the guitar department during their tenure they enlisted the services of the very capable Dave Klussmann and got right to work on freshly released EP Order & Chaos which is available now via independent release. Don’t forget your crash helmet.

Kronos commences with haunting violin work before kicking into a wild combination of powerful vocals, intricate riffing and impactful drumming. The alluring mood and orchestral elements really amplify the high levels of intensity and the distinct blackened edge also assists in getting this release off to a commanding start. The Moirai feels like a baseball bat to the teeth. Potent waves of swift instrumentation mixed with plentiful grooves and hooks provide a breathtaking experience and show the sheer levels of proficient musicianship that KARYBDIS have at their fingertips. The energetic flurries and enticing layering of Maja Valles keep the momentum flowing like a raging tide. Throw in a relentless tempo and copious dynamic elements and you have another whirlwind of majestic prowess on your hands.

Order & Chaos lets the strings do the talking and whilst being particularly soothing on the surface this interlude keeps you gripped as you know full well all hell is going to break loose at any moment. True to expectations, Tartarus launches right back into the business end and leaves every ounce of blood and sweat on show for the world to see. Ferocious aggression alongside surging melodies has your blood pumping to the point it feels like it will burst out of every orifice. A phenomenal end to this impressive release.

Order & Chaos will leave your head spinning off your shoulders but also craving more in equal fashion. KARYBDIS have used the concept of an EP release to devastating effect, cramming as much as physically possible into this helping of tracks to leave you in a state of awe. If this is your first experience of this talented bunch then it’s one hell of an introduction. The future is looking incredibly bright and this effort will definitely have a lot of people talking.

Rating: 9/10

Order & Chaos is out now via self-release.

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