Abhorer
Zygotical Sabbatory Unabapt
[Shivadarshana]
Yes, I'm fully aware that there's already a few reviews for this release on
the LARM! site, but I just can't help the urge to throw my two cents' worth
in on this godlike slab of blasphemy. This release is my first exposure to
Abhorer, and rest assured that I'll definitely be tracking down their older
releases very soon. For those not familiar with Abhorer, they're one of the
older bands (formed around 1988, I believe) in the Singapore scene. As much
as I loathe the usage of the word "cult" nowadays, I can't think of any other
proper way to describe Abhorer.
This disc is definitely one of the highlights of my record collection.
Musically, it's flawlessly executed old-style death metal with distinct
influences from classic thrash/speed metal. Don't let that description fool
you, however; there's nothing "retro" or trendy about this particular
release, which is a massive exercise in overpowering black/death intensity.
Crushing riffs, barbaric high-speed drumming, and completely morbid mid-range
vocals... what more could you want? In my opinion this is death metal in its
truest sense - morbid, evil, and violent.
I'm honestly surprised that Abhorer hasn't received more recognition.
Perhaps their location and being on a relatively small record label has
contributed largely to this. At any rate, it's a goddamn shame. One last
point - while I can't think of anything negative to say about this release,
I am thoroughly disappointed by the fact that Abhorer has disbanded. The
scene definitely needs more bands like this to carry the torch of true
fucking metal.
© 1998 baalberith