In the wake of a four-year hiatus, and a pandemic that left its mark on us all, Vastum, the venerable pillar of the 20 Buck Spin roster, returns with their fifth sonic assault, "Inward To Gethsemane."
As the longest-running act on the label, Vastum continues to be a relentless force of sonic brutality and introspective darkness.
From the very first notes of "Inward To Gethsemane," it's evident that Vastum hasn't lost an ounce of their ferocity.
The familiar undercurrent of abject disgust, a signature element of Vastum's unique approach to death metal, still shrouds their music in an unsettling aura of unease. This is a band unafraid to explore the darkest corners of the human psyche.
The cavernous density that has become a core element of Vastum's discography remains as inhuman as ever. Their music delves into ever-darker atmospheres but never loses its relentless, punishing momentum. It's a testament to their craftsmanship that they can create such a forbidding atmosphere without descending into ambient murk.
One of the defining features of Vastum's sound is the harrowing dual vocal assault of Daniel Butler and Leila Abdul-Rauf. Their voices serve as the possessed narrators of Vastum's hellish underworld, adding depth and intensity to every track on "Inward To Gethsemane."
As the album progresses, the band showcases a transformative and even experimental side on the epic eight-minute closer, "Corpus Fractum." This track veers into uncharted territory both musically and vocally while maintaining the merciless power for which Vastum is revered.
With sporadic but legendary live performances and a worshipped discography of modern-era true death metal, Vastum has earned its place as a torchbearer of the grisly and grotesque underground, not only within its native Bay Area but far beyond. "Inward To Gethsemane" proudly carves another notch in Vastum's totem of deviance, solidifying their position as a relentless and uncompromising force in the realm of extreme metal.
"Inward To Gethsemane" is a relentless journey into the darkest recesses of the human experience, delivered with unapologetic brutality and unyielding intensity. Vastum's legacy in the realm of death metal remains intact, and this album stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft. Released by 20 Buck Spin, it's a must-listen for fans of extreme and uncompromising music.
