Years ago, when I first got a dub of this EP, I thought it sucked. Now, three or so years later, I think it's godly. I'm so glad I gave it a second chance. This could arguably be the band's best work, although I think their self-titled 1994 effort was damn impressive. This EP has five tracks, three from the studio and two from a live setting, with rather good sound seeing as this was recorded back in the early '90s.

Asphyx is an old-school death metal styled band whose music relies on catchy riffs based on a slow- to mid-pacing. It works quite well, especially when well-placed double-bass is utilized (much like Bolt Thrower). The power of Asphyx's music is overwhelming sometimes, as evidenced in the track "Rite of Shades". It's a rather short song, but it perfectly showcases the band's many talents: Bob Bagchus's drumming, Eric Daniel's guitar work and Martin Van Drunen's manic vocals. He truly had a style all his own. Even though this is just an EP, I think it's the best Asphyx I've heard thus far.

© 1999 goden