How about some heavy death metal? Well, here's a nice album from German band Breed of Scorn that I can suggest to those who like it heavy... and even a bit melodic! 'Zero Point Mantra' is the band's debut album, including an intro and seven songs; my only grievance about it is its 30-minute length!

The riffs here are heavy-handed and something like a mixture of Obituary, Hypocrisy and Benediction. They are driving and into-the-point, malign and violent. The lead guitar work, that isn't heard a lot, conjures ominous evil in. So, this is definitely riff-oriented. The bass guitar that both clanks and sounds softer, complementing both the guitars and drums. Loads of double kick beats are bombed, and to me that's very much okay as it adds more weight. It is simplistic, but not overtly so, and there's some tasty tricks here and there, even on the bass (almost soloing here and there). The closer shows slight industrial vibe (not the first time for a German death metal band to tread in that territory, huh?!) and is the least familiar of the bunch; I wouldn't have minded more of this kind divergence happening. The songs aren't created with one mold, but there's nothing unusual with composition styles; it's bulldozing death metal, and it's not stalling.

Phlegm-filled throat vocals are very much in Jeff Walker style, but there's more raspy growl, too, as well as more shrieky voice, and all apparently done by one guy. Oh, and let's not forget some clean, tortured vocal lines. All round well accomplished. The lyrical themes include human feelings, and there certainly is nothing paranormal here. Self-inspection is where demons can be found...

The guitars sound meaty and grinding, and the rhythm section is hefty, but nothing gets buried, so it is all well at the production front. Generally, 'Zero Point Mantra' certainly does sound familiar, but it is not easy to compare to one specific band. It should be well listenable for those who enjoy aforementioned bands and similar stuff. However, ultimately there isn't anything new to be heard, so it is not a real must. But that rather warped cover art is something to behold.

Rating: 8- (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
11/29/2022 07:49