Even though the band's name might suggest, that they are a black metal band, Spiritual Holocaust actually play death metal. 'Salute the Death' is their debut demo, but four out of five members are familiar from the ranks of death/thrash band Point-Blank.

The decision to form a different band is understandable, because the sound of Spiritual Holocaust is different to Point-Blank's. Here, the band perform slow or, at best, mid-paced death metal. It's not quite as doomy as, say, Runemagick or Asphyx, but still pretty dark. The riffs and lead guitar parts are ominous, usually with a Swedish tinge. 'Left for the Rats' reminds me about are Bolt Thrower and their lead-heavy, double kick drumming weight and warped guitar work à la Trey Azagthoth (Morbid Angel).

The vocals are powerfully enough growled throaty type, a bit like more tame Jan-Chris De Koeijer of Gorefest, so that the words are quite tangible. The bass is very high up in the mix, giving the band their unique sound. It's all well performed, without any element shading others. The sound lacks in the lower end, and it's a shame, because one can sense that the band could be so darned heavy...

In my opinion, Spiritual Holocaust have created a deadlier demo than Point-Blank's two creations are. The song material here is solid, even though there can be found some more generic riffs and decisions. If ominous and slower death metal tickles your mind, then why not give 'Salute the Death' some spinning? This is promising and a good start for the band!

Reviewed by Lane
01/03/2011 22:34