Let's dive into the brutal world of Vertiginous and their latest release, “Incessant Affliction”. This Indonesian duo packs a punch with their brand of brutal death metal, leaving no room for mercy. The album opens with a bang, quite literally, as “Suffering, Misery, and Slaughtering” sets the tone for a relentless listening experience.
Personally, I think the key to Vertiginous’ success lies in their ability to capture the essence of the genre while adding their own unique twist. They draw inspiration from the likes of Suffocation, Devourment, and Cannibal Corpse, but manage to create a sound that is distinctly theirs. One thing that immediately stands out is their use of “bite-sized bass breaks”, which adds a nice layer of texture to the overall chaos.
However, as much as I appreciate the intensity, I found myself struggling to distinguish one track from another. The album feels like a continuous onslaught, which can be both a blessing and a curse. While it maintains the momentum, it also leaves little room for memorable moments to shine through. “Crucified in Fate Hesitation” and “Incubated Inquietude”, for example, blend together seamlessly, making it hard to pinpoint individual songs.
From my perspective, this lack of variation could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it maintains the album’s aggressive flow; on the other, it might leave listeners craving more diversity. Despite this, I must admit that Vertiginous has an impressive grasp of their craft. The production quality is top-notch, enhancing the brutal nature of their sound. Jossi Bima’s guttural vocals are a force to be reckoned with, while Hendika Dwi Prasetyo showcases his versatility on all instruments, particularly with his thunderous drumming.
What many people don’t realize is that brutal death metal is an incredibly technical genre. It’s not just about being loud and fast; it’s about precision and skill. Vertiginous demonstrates this with their carefully honed depth, even amidst the sonic concussion. While I would have liked to see more focus on riff development, their ability to create an immersive listening experience is undeniable.
In conclusion, “Incessant Affliction” is a solid release that showcases Vertiginous’ potential. It’s a brutal, relentless ride that will satisfy fans of the genre. Although it may not be the most innovative album, it delivers on its promise of unrestrained brutality. I, for one, am excited to see what the future holds for this Indonesian duo and their unique brand of death metal.
