Have you ever seen a gore horror movie, which has a very similar set that some other movie of the same ilk does? Then you realize, that both flicks were shot on the same set. Necroabortion's debut album 'Brutal Misanthropy' brought this question on my mind during the very first spinning: Where have I heard this before? Well, I didn't had to think for a long time...

It is safe to say, that Argentinian Necroabortion is influenced by Cannibal Corpse, and especially the George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher era (1996-now). Many elements from CC are in Necroabortion's vile music: Rather technical guitar playing, nasty guitar squeals, barked growl vocals, similar chord progressions and fast pace. However, it must be noted, that generally it's both Florida and New York death metal strains, that have worked as an influencing entity for these fellows. Bands such as Deeds Of Flesh, Suffocation and Vile (okay, they come from California) certainly have their fingerprints here.

Many of the songs have their own characteristic elements. Half of the songs are under or 3 minutes long, but it does not mean that these compositions are plain. Necroabortion haven't tried to cram breakdowns to every single track just for the sake of the must for having breakdowns. There are more varying tracks, as well as into-the-point ones ('Extermination' for example). The style in which Necroabortion play is percussive. Hacking and crushing riffs, elaborate and sick finger-runs on fretboards, aforementioned squeals (which could be more high-pitched and therefore nastier) and multifaceted lead guitar, such as some atmospheric solos, work make this quite diverse guitar-wise. Rhythm guitars are low-tuned, while the lead ones are limpid. And what's better; a lot of it is memorable. This thing alone makes the album noteworthy. There's a lot of pummeling double kick drumming and blast beats to maim a listener, but also more out-of-norm stuff (e.g. the parts of the title track). It's precise and devastating, especially together with the rumbling bass guitar that brings in even more ooomph. It gets rather swirling at times, but not chaotic.

While the album begins with a story about killing in the woods, it's far from detailed gory narrations. It's not all easily intelligible, as English isn't the band's mother tongue. Another topic is religions, without any surprise. The vocals are powerful, but typical, growling. Not forgetting about those Corpsegrinder-esque high-pitched ending screams.

Sound-wise this is heavy and weighty. While it sounds thick, it is also quite well balanced between the instruments and the vocals. The kick drums sound triggered, even though not for all the time. I think guys recorded this by themselves, but this isn't a shitty rehearsal place recording. But the PhotoShopped cover art is simply ugly, and not in a good way.

The band was formed in 2004 and as mentioned, this is their debut full-length (after the first release, 2006 EP 'Transfiguration of the Corpse'). It's still early stages for this quartet. Hopefully they can bring in some more characteristic elements for their next release, even though this is already a promising effort. This is well above average, and if you are looking for some Cannibal Corpse emulation, this is a good enough choice.

Rating: 6+ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
01/30/2014 11:16