Nearly seven years after Rehearsal MMXIX, Deathwards, from Rancagua in Chile’s O’Higgins Region, unleash an avalanche of furious, razor-sharp riffs on their debut, Realms of Sin. In just over 37 minutes, the band delivers powerful, technically demanding Death/Thrash Metal with impeccable instrumental execution. The references range from early Slayer and Infernäl Mäjesty to echoes of Voivod, Possessed and Morbid Angel.
The vocals are one of the record’s most distinctive elements. Rather than closely following the patterns of the riffs, the delivery takes on a declamatory, almost recitative character, introducing a pulse of its own over the music. This approach accompanies lyrics inspired by Dante’s Inferno and gives the album a particular identity. Throughout the recording, the members’ experience comes through in the precision and assurance of their playing.
After the storm of the first four tracks, “Sullen Blood” offers a brief respite with a mid-paced passage and pounding drums. It does not last long: blastbeats erupt towards the end to close the song. “Unbound from Divine Omnipotence” has a touch of Destruction and the classic pulse of Sentence of Death, a reference that works particularly well here.
“The Sore Weight of Repentance” is one of the album’s strongest tracks. Its clear inspiration from Hell Awaits and Reign in Blood comes through in the excellent guitar work and equally effective drumming. “Worms of Malebolge” marks another high point before “The Innermost Chasm” and “Lawless Fire” bring the record to its conclusion.
Special mention goes to Chilean artist Jorge Olavarria, responsible for the phenomenal painting on the cover. Realms of Sin brings together sharp riffs, precise execution and a vocal delivery with a character of its own. Highly recommended material. Get it or die!
Standout tracks: “Supplicium”, “Unbound from Divine Omnipotence”, “The Sore Weight of Repentance” and “Worms of Malebolge”.
Slayer · Infernäl Mäjesty · Voivod · Possessed · Morbid Angel · Destruction
