Finally, Scent Of Flesh (SoF from now on) got their debut album out. After two sold-out demos the band wrote their names in blood with Greek label Black Lotus Records.

SoF play totally non-trendy death metal. The band mix both European and American styles in their own way, sounding familiar, but still kind of refreshing. Adding slight individuality, SoF have a good debut in their discography. There are some surprises, at least for a newcomer, in shape of acoustic guitars and excellent melodies, between rhythmic and brutal parts. The songs take many twists, but it all sticks together without nothing sounding out of place. Vocals are low growling sometimes accompanied by higher growl. That well known demonic vocals effect that Deicide use.

'Roaring Depths of Insanity' was recorded in 10 days in Music-Bros Studio, the place where their 2nd demo, 'Towards Eternal Lost' (2001, all 3 songs included here) was done. This album has similar sound politics compared to the demo: shredding guitars to tight snare drum bashing. Organic affair all the way and well played in general. Better than usual over-produced stuff. Only it could be heavier...

The band was formed in 2000. This sounds better than you probably would think from such a young band and judging by its cover, which is ruined with some minimal computer graphics. All lyrics are included (they are mostly about death and madness). I hope SoF can add more individual elements into their future releases, but this album shows a band with a lot of potential. Death-heads, try it now and support Finnish death metal.

Rating: 7 (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
01/02/2003 21:45