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ROTTEN SOIL
From Beyond The Grave

Self-released (2022)
Rating: 7/10

Although evidently inspired by the Swedish death metal scene, Unleashed and Entombed in particular, and with that classic chugging sound, the debut album from German trio Rotten Soil is far from being an imitation.

Boasting 12 strong tracks, From Beyond The Grave is a well-crafted, visceral and accessible opus with some excellent, catchy slower passages (‘Indoctrination’ stands out), but plenty of chuga-chuga menace (‘Overthrow The Sacred Throne’) and gnarly, rhythmic pulsations (‘Bastard Of Christ’).

Many bands are taking the Swedish vibe but resorting to unwelcoming repetition, and while the flashes of Entombed etc. are frequent here, the belligerence and creativity within the tracks is to be admired, more so in the slight variations of the vocal assaults and the variances of tempo.

‘Slaves To Darkness’ is a fantastic example of the band’s ability to combine gnashing, slower segments with a more torrential barrage of aggression, but it’s good, solid death metal throughout with ‘Drowning In Blood’ pulverising in the percussive department, and those overflowing shredded riffs just flow like black, oily water. It’s still very much encased in the solid framework of the late 80s and early 90s Swedish stylings, yet it remains more potent than, say, releases by Entrails and the likes.

‘Putrefaction’ is one of the faster expressions on offer, while at the other end of the spectrum ‘Necrobreed’ chugs with ominous aplomb. It’s just a record that is equipped with sturdy, gnashing traits laced with vocal barks and deeper growls and a bass and drum tag-team which solidify this 40-minute opus as a vintage, yet expressive cascade of menace and frothing homage.

While there is familiarity within its folds, From Beyond The Grave remains fluid yet ravenously restrained, almost like a rabid hellhound about to free itself from its leash.

Neil Arnold

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