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LAVINIA WHATELEY
Eidolon EP

Self-released (2023)
Rating: 7.5/10

This unsigned band from Brighton in England announced itself in May of this year with their debut EP Mythos, and now, just a few weeks later, return with this latest offering. Lavinia Whateley play H.P. Lovecraft obsessed death / thrash and just like the previous EP this new release serves up a trio of tracks with each one exhibiting some serious heaviness.

I remember hearing the opening track, ‘In Search Of The Cyclopean’, from the Mythos EP and thought, initially, that Lavinia Whateley was going to be a stoner band, but how wrong was I? This new EP begins with ‘In Death, I Remain’ which starts with such a sinister glint in its eye with those teasing, suspenseful chords. Vocally, there is a black metal rasp to the attack. In fact, one feels that the music could easily sway that way too. However, a thunderous yet thorny thrash attack is only just around the corner.

Eidolon is jam packed with numerous abrasive counter attacks and snaking solos, but the rich black vein of melody remains. ‘The Last Incantation’ is furious and scathing in its approach with hyper drums, seething axe work and that ominous yet often arrogant black / death scowl. ‘Tolometh’ closes proceedings is ultra fast, spiteful and malicious, but this time the vocals veer into a slightly more dapper trajectory.

This is an enjoyable and raucous romp dripping with venom and I hope the band is considering a full-length album soon.

Neil Arnold

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