Label: Brutal Cave Productions
Genre: Death Metal
Length: 38 minutes
Crown of Anguish, the British death metal band, makes a powerful statement with their debut album Stalker at the Midian Gate, released in 2024 under the Portuguese label Brutal Cave Productions. After generating interest with their self-titled EP in 2023, the band solidifies their potential with a record that’s sure to please fans of the genre.
The album starts with Gathering Stormfires of the Perilous Want, a relentless onslaught of blast beats and violent riffs that leave no respite for the listener. From the opening notes, it’s clear that Crown of Anguish have perfectly mstered the elements of death metal, delivering fast-paced, well-structured compositions. The brutal assault of guitars and drums is tempered by meticulously crafted solos, adding a subtle but effective melodic touch. This blend of aggression and melody evokes the old-school death metal influence that permeates the album.
Comparisons to genre legends like Nile and Morbid Angel are well-founded. Tracks like Radiant Moon of Aphos and From the Embers to the Catacombs showcase these influences, both in the complexity of the compositions and the dark atmosphere that pervades the album. Vengeful Eye of the Magi also highlights this connection with an intensity that recalls the most memorable moments of those iconic bands.
Among the standout tracks on the album, Limbless in Rapture stands out for its dark atmosphere and remarkable structure. The tension is palpable from start to finish, providing a listening experience that’s as immersive as it is disturbing. Sidereal Rites stands out with vocal influences clearly drawn from Nile, further solidifying Crown of Anguish’s sonic identity. And He Who Bears the Key represents the apotheosis of the release, with an evolving composition that showcases the band’s technical and artistic prowess.
With Stalker at the Midian Gate, Crown of Anguish delivers a promising debut album that’s sure to earn its place among the essential death metal releases of today. A work that’s both brutal and refined, it’s bound to satisfy fans of the genre seeking new ntense experiences.
Rating : 8.5/10
To listen : Spotif
