vote
7.0
- Band:
FATHER BEFOULED - Duration: 00:25:00
- Available from: 09/13/2024
- Label:
-
Everlasting Spew Records
The new EP by Father Befouled confirms the path of the American band, always devoted to a dark and impenetrable death metal. Since the beginning, the Atlanta group has drawn inspiration almost exclusively from the grim and angular school of Incantation, and even on “Immaculate Pain” the loyalty to that sound is evident. However, compared to previous releases, a maturation in songwriting and a slight variation in style emerges, already hinted at in the latest full-length “Crowned in Veneficum”. While maintaining the now typical backbone of their death metal, Father Befouled also in this short-distance work introduce some elements that enrich and nuance their otherwise ultra-traditional approach.
In the three unreleased pieces proposed, more melodic and evocative influences emerge especially in the guitar solos, which also in this circumstance recall the first Paradise Lost. It is not a drastic change compared to the work of the debut, but a subtle evolution that makes the songs a little more dynamic, without scratching the proverbial oppressive aura. The melody emerges as a sort of flame that winds through the mists of a heavily distorted and creeping sound, without ever taking over, but equally contributing to creating a greater atmospheric depth. Added to this is an influence of the old Finnish school also slightly more present than usual, with a solemnity that seems to make the development of the compositions more fluid.
Father Befouled have never been a band that stands out for their personality, and even in this EP the quartet doesn't stray too far from the genre's canons. However, the effectiveness of their songwriting is growing, with the songs acquiring greater identity and now tending not to slavishly repeat the structure of the episode that preceded them. This evolution doesn't distort the essence of the group, but rather strengthens it, making their approach sharper and more incisive.
Another note of merit goes to the two covers included in the mini, “Pain Divine” by Morbid Angel and “Vulgar Necrolatry” by Abhorrence. Although the original versions remain unsurpassed, Father Befouled manage to pay homage with respect and a good dose of euphoria, without distorting the essence of the songs, but integrating them rather effectively into the context.
Daniel D`Amico for SANREMO.FM