UMUR
"Dilemmantrauma" is an EP release by Finnish sludge/doom metal act Fleshpress. The EP was released through Kult of Nihilow in 2000. It´s the band´s first release after forming in 1998. Fleshpress features among others the rather prolific Mikko Aspa (Clandestine Blaze, Deathspell Omega, Stabat Mater...etc.) on drums.
"Dilemmantrauma" features 8 tracks and a total playing time of 26:50 minutes, so there is enough quantity for the money despite the EP label. The quality of the material also follows suit, and "Dilemmantrauma" features some strong and ultra heavy, blues based stoner/sludge metal. There is a strong similarity to the early output of Eyehategod. Often to the point of Fleshpress moving well into worship territory. The clone factor could have been a turn-off but Fleshpress understand how to deliver this type of music with the right amount of rawness and filthy authenticity. The heavy fuzzy distorted riffs and heavy and groove laden rhythms are complimented by screaming hardcore vocals (or blackened screaming if you prefer that description), and there is no doubt that these guys love every note they play.
Fleshpress don´t break any new ground with "Dilemmantrauma", but as it´s a both well performed, well produced (featuring a dark, murky, and fuzzy sounding production, which suits the music perfectly), and well written, the lack of an original sound matters less than it would normally do in my world. The organic playing, irresistable groovy rhythms and heavy riffs, and the thick aggressive dark atmosphere which threatens to suffocate the listener are great treats on "Dilemmantrauma" and upon conclusion it´s a high quality release. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.