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