'Dying' is the third Anasarca platter. The band's previous one is called 'Moribund' (2001), so the guys are interested in death. Can you already guess the musical style of Anasarca? Yep, they are a death metal band. True death metal, mind you. None of the melodiousness contaminating the true art of the metal of death.

'Dying' is one of the most disturbing albums I've ever heard. 'Moribund' contained lyrics written by real death row inmates. On this album the band take a step further, as the lyrics on all but one song are written by terminally sick people. These are real feelings, full of anger, despair and indulgent emotions. It all really made me think, that maybe I'm a pretty lucky bastard after all. Of course I don't know who are the people behind these texts, but in spite of it, that doesn't matter at all. I'm simply scared, to tell the truth. How often does that happen when you read lyrics?

I'm not going to compare this with the previous releases, as this is the first Anasarca album I get to hear. 'Dying' sounds 1990s all the way. Most of the material is fast, but there's short breathers every now and then. 'Dying' is devoid of melodies, but despite that fact the songs are very well put together and memorable all the way. This doesn't happen with every brutal death metal album, does it?! It might be stupid from me to do some name dropping, but fuck it: 'Dying' can be suggested for those who like Avulsed and Fleshcrawl, and just to keep this list short, similar acts. Generally, Anasarca sound very European, but they do utilize some Cannibal Corpse riffage, from somewhere 'The Bleeding' (1994) era. Vocals are comprehensible (as it should, to respect the people who wrote the texts) yet brutish low growling, with some shrieks. Recorded as a two-man band, soundwise this is organic, but clear and heavy.

'Dying' is a short album, but it can be a very heavy experience, both lyricswise and musicwise. How often does a metal album make you think??? I mean, not just zombies, killers and gore, but real life's dealed cards? And despite one's health, this is what awaits in any case: 'Dying'. Chilly yet fucking good listening for those whose seek old schoolish death metal. Anasarca definitely give a considerable kick in the genitalia with 'Dying'.

Rating: 7½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
10/24/2007 00:22