Those who think Cephalic Carnage are just another 1000 mph, 100% of the time grind band need to shut up and listen to them. From the opening doomy moments "Scolopendra Cingulata," with it's subterranean, heart-jarring bass drops, one should realize this album will be unpredictable.
While there ARE many grindy songs, each track manages to have it's own identify, which is a feat in itself. However, not only are they identifiable, they are also GOOD! For example, "Anthro Emesis" mixes nearly equal parts of grind madness with headbanging grooves, keeping the song fresh and fun to listen to. The lyrics on that particular song are rather interesting, to say the least.
Another standout track is "Black Metal Sabbath." It begins with a spoken word intro (I'm not sure where from, exactly) before exploding into some kvlt black metal. After about two minutes of blackness, there is a short transition period before the song begins to lurch forward again with a massive Sabbath (who would have guessed?) groove. Definitely one of the coolest--and most cleverly titled--metal songs I've heard in a long time.
"Cannabism" is a short flamenco type instrumental, which segues into the awesome title track. I won't try to describe it, because I don't know what to say other than it has a few moments Swedish death flavored riffing, and some cool tempo changes. Just download it at mp3.com.
I love bands that save the best song for last, and that happens to be the case on Lucid Interval. "Arsonist Savior" is incredible. The "real" song is 5 minutes long, filled with groove, many pinch harmonics, and of course those massive bass drops. After about 7 minutes of silence, the 'hidden' track begins. This is one of the few times where I can remember a hidden track that is actually worth waiting for and listening to. It is an instrumental piece, featuring a violin, saxophone, drums, bass, electronics, and some occasional clean guitar. The song is absolutely beautiful. The drummer deserves a ton of credit for this 9 minute jam, listen to this song just to hear his work.
After listening to this album, and knowing CC are releasing a 3 part doom epic, I think it becomes obvious that Cephalic Carnage are an extremely diverse and talented band, head and shoulders above most metal bands. The low vocals might turn some people off, but it is their loss. You must hear this band.