CONTAIGEON

It may be new school UK death metal bands like TRIGGER THE BLOODSHED and ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY that are getting all the attention, but there is a ready-for-prime-time act called CONTAIGEON lurking in the underground that deserves wider recognition. The guys play real deal, down 'n dirty UK death metal that just happens to be influenced from legendary groups from the other side of the pond. That is to take nothing away from either of the aforementioned new schoolers, both worthy examples of modern UKDM, but as far as traditional death metal is concerned "Death at the Gates of Delirium" is the cat's tortured meow.

Available on "web-based un-label" Works of Ein who offer this first release as a free or pay-as-you-like download, "Death at the Gates of Delirium" is a traditional death metal album that borrows heavily from the works of MORBID ANGEL in the songwriting department, while shades of IMMOLATION's early-to-mid-period hymns of darkness are present as well. Bellowing words inspired by H.P. Lovecraft, guitarist/vocalist Archeon's "Gutteral Incantations" mix the power of David Vincent with the iniquitous cavern growls of Ross Dolan. Certain songs — "Those in the Soul" especially — are dead ringers for MORBID ANGEL in their mid-tempo crunch qualities and choruses that are more mantra than refrain. Indeed, amidst the sickening marches and squawking serpentine riffs is some darn memorable songwriting, perhaps the best tribute to the USDM heavyweights that CONTAIGEON could pay.

The fact of the matter is that imitation alone does not flatter. Good songwriting, great riffs, and one Hell of a nefarious presence do. That is the reason why the music of CONTAIGEON will automatically appeal to any fan of classic USDM. Well written and damn heavy, "Death at the Gates of Delirium" is an album that requires your attention. The feeling is right.