As I lately was thrilled by the label’s last release Japanische Kampfhörspiele, I forced up my expectations and curiosity when I got their newest record GLASS CASKET on me desk.
Well, to be honest, when I got hold of this record my first impression was not a good one. Packaging and info let me sigh: again just metalcore (most unnecessary hype ever … you could just as well call it death metal, but, hey it’s sooooo uncool).
But compared to all these other bands in this genre which just polish up their metal/hardcore/crossover porridge with pathetically pseudo-melodic clean vocals a lá Gothenburg and At The Gates guitars GLASS CASKET permanently kick ass. Killswitch Engage and Caliban mosh is in little demand, instead the “bulldozer/ we roll everything to pieces” attitude gives you what you need! Low-down scream vocals alternate with most darksome grunts. Chugga chugga guitars play tag with ultra fast grindcore blasts and the death metal guitars that sometimes sound Gothenburg-stylish at least pass on nursery rhymes. It’s all quite diversified and exciting, but aggressive ‘till the end.
Who needs a break now and then should better listen to something else. Those who think it could be interesting and already feels their neck hurting in remembrance of bands like newer Botch, late Coalesce and early Converge have to snatch at the offer! 8,5!