Label: Fetzner Death Records
Genre: Black/Death Doom Metal
Length: 29:02
Today, I'd like to share with you my impressions of Dysphoric Devotion (after a first listen), the long-awaited debut album from German band Greh. Formed in 2022, the band had already released two debut EPs: Age of Resentment (2022) and Reversion of the Repressed (2023). They're continuing their ascent with this forthcoming record, due out on 15 January via Fetzner Death Records.
If you've read my review of their single ‘Chained Thoughts’, you'll know that I was already won over by their blackened death/doom metal.
From the very first notes, Dysphoric Devotion establishes a heavy, emotionally charged atmosphere. The album's structure is not particularly nuanced, but it remains highly captivating, combining heavy, oppressive passages with faster, more aggressive moments. Growth in Pain, for example, struck me for the way it switches between heavy rhythms and frenetic passages, creating a strangely depressive atmosphere. As for Illusional Cenotaph, I was immediately captivated by the drums. The changes of rhythm are striking, while the growls and screams intertwine perfectly to heighten the intensity.
The vocal performance was one of the things that stood out for me. The way the vocals oscillate between powerful growls and piercing screams is simply remarkable. On tracks like Thy Breath Not Mine, it even manages to adopt a narrative and menacing tone in the middle of the song, adding a dramatic and immersive dimension. This interplay of variations brings a unique richness to the album, and keeps the listener on their toes from start to finish.
Among the tracks that stood out the most for me was Illusional Cenotaph, which is undoubtedly my favourite. The power of the vocals, combined with the omnipresent drums and perfectly executed rhythm changes, make it an unforgettable track. Thy Breath Not Mine also takes pride of place for its eerie atmosphere and gradual evolution from oppressively slow to explosive black metal riffs in the end. Finally, I can't fail to mention Enter My Oblivion, the longest and most technical track on the album. The bass plays a major role here, and the oppressive screams in the middle of the track reinforce the malevolent emotion, and the end of the track concludes the album in a cold, enigmatic atmosphere.
Nevermind, Dysphoric Devotion is a real plunge into a dark and captivating, violent realm. With well-crafted songwritting, impressive vocal performances and surprising tracks. We can't wait for 15 January, so you can discover this little gem of blackened death/doom metal!!
ORDER YOUR COPY : Fetzner Death Records - Website or on the Bandcamp below
