I’d say that my first experience with the band Predatory Void was a pleasant one; otherwise, I wouldn’t be writing this review. The band, hailing from Belgium, captured my attention with their EP Atoned in Metamorphosis, recently released via Pelagic Records in digital format, on vinyl (in a limited edition of 250 copies) and on CD. The band, formed in 2022, released their debut album, Seven Keys to the Discomfort of Being, in 2023.
Atoned In Metamorphosis is a 13:26-minute EP featuring four tracks. The EP takes a progressive direction following the opening track, Make Me Whole, where the vocal performance takes centre stage. The instruments gradually come in to create a heavy soundscape, with an aggressive doom metal sound. The atmosphere is macabre and repulsive, which is particularly evident in the transitions as the rhythm shifts from one section to another. As for the production, I find it well-balanced; every instrument is precise and clear.
The distorted guitars combine aggressive compositions with tempos that alternate between fast and heavy. This nuance can be heard on the track Peeling Cycle, particularly in the transition from 1:21 onwards. I also think the best guitar performance is found on this track. Darker guitar notes can be heard on Contemplation in Time from 2:10 onwards. The drums are imposing on tracks such as New Moon, featuring truly captivating blast beats alongside more rhythmic passages.
The vocals are imposing, sometimes drowned out by the instruments, and take on a clear, high-pitched form, with piercing screams that come straight from black metal. The vocals also feature moments of whispering to add intensity and varied nuances. The best vocal performance is, in my opinion, on the track New Moon, specifically from 1:54 onwards, where we can feel its energy, but it is from 2:29 onwards that the raw energy really comes through a very powerful high-pitched vocal. On Contemplation in Time, ithe vocals performance reaches its peak.
Among the tracks I enjoyed, New Moon stand out, which in my opinion, is the EP’s centrepiece as it combines the raw and heavy elements of the composition. But my favourite track is undoubtedly Peeling Cycle, with a more aggressive tone, carried by somewhat more melodic guitars in certain passages (short, repetitive melodies from 1:52 onwards). I also enjoyed Contemplation in Time for its sombre atmosphere and impeccable vocal performance.
I think Atoned In Metamorphosis is a remarkable piece of work, even though I don’t listen to this genre of music very much. It combines undeniable sonic aggression with heavy, overwhelming moments, powerful vocals, and clear production. I enjoyed this EP, which is why I’ve written this review.
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