Time Signature
MEtallophilian mass...
Genre: death metal
Originally called Dethroned Empire, Antropomorphia was among the earliest death metal bands on the Dutch scene, but decided to call it a day in 1999, having released only one full-length release, and EP and a couple of demos. As with so many other defunct death metal bands from that era, Antropomorphia decided to get back together recently (in 2009), and in 2012, they released their second full-length album Evangelivm Nekromantia.
And, wow, what a comeback! The style is decidedly old school with a couple of modern elements and a slight touch (very slight) of black metal. Utilizing both Autopsy-style heavy doom-ladden passages and uptempo Suffocation-like brutality. Wrapping these elements in the dymanic song structures associated with Morta Skuld, the Dutchmen really hit the jackpot artistically on this album. Every track contains a plethora of riffs and tempo changes without ever being overly technical, and there are several chrushing riffs then gel really well with the doom-ladden passages and the more traditional death metal tremolo-picked figures.
The production is pretty much up-to-date without being polished as such. But, compared to much 90s death metal, you can hear what is going on, because the mastering is really well balanced. Thus, the listener is not likely to miss out on the dynamic hi-hat figures that appear in many of the heavier parts.
Fans of old school, semi-technical death metal are bound to enjoy the package of necro-evil that is Evangelivm Nekromantia.
(review originally posted at seaoftranquility.org)