...to Darkened Depths of Imagination

From a local band, of all places; this band was out before I knew anything about what metal was about, and is about one of a handful of real metal bands in the Peoria, IL area (my hometown). This is a piece of true, breathing local metal history. I just happened to fall right into the right hands, so to speak.

I first came across Altered Existence through the past session drummer of prominent local group Akashah, Devon Greene. Nearing back fourteen years, Altered was a power trio, composed of creator/bassist/vocalist Mark Ellsworth, guitarist Joey McCoy, and drummer Matt Scott. Through various line-up changes, Altered is now composed of yet another three members: creator Mark Ellsworth, guitarist Jon Nieukirk, and Scott Gentry. Peoria is nowhere near as metal as Chicago, although the Central Illinois area does have a sparse yet rather interesting metal collective. Such a respect for smaller named crafts may be the reason Ellsworth has finally re-animated this riff-sickened debut.

…To the Darkened Depths of Imagination has a mix of old-school death metal that adds in some technicality with that of thrash. There are some similarities of Death, Atheist, and Sadus, while creating their own unique characteristics. The pace is quite varied as well, from frenzied sprees like that of “Escape” and “Scars of Time” (notice the light-speed vocal delivery), to that of more introspective pieces like “Ever So Alone” and “Forgotten Prisoner”, further displaying Altered Existence’s well-rounded songwriting capabilities.

The riffs are very well expressed in a variety of tempos, as well as the rest of the instrumentation. The drums are clear in the mix, and the bass is thick, yet not an underling to the guitar, serving as accompanied rhythm and the extra-provided strength of tone. And within these qualities, the rawness is still felt clear as day. The last track, "Mirror Image" utilizes a vibra harp that gives off a mentally ill, morose maladjustment, providing a deft touch that adds further dimension and depth to Altered Existence. For a local group, such a balanced and frugal production is excellent as far as indie releases are concerned. It’s great that Altered is actually back to play again, as well as create newer riffs (and which they already have). This was re-released in 2007-2008, and by the graces of Mr. Ellsworth, I am humbly honored to have reviewed something that has existed in town since 95’.

The re-release comes in modern times, but can remind us when death metal was more than being plagued by today’s times of triggered, hollow drumming, playing for brutality without emotion, and nauseatingly spotless production (although I’m not old enough to be saying anything). I once said death metal should be like entering an unkempt house, at least: there should be dust, cobwebs, the rank stench of mothballs and mortality in waning, sites of abject horror; a dilemma unconquered. Well, this band’s name itself inspires the many dilemmas one can face if he/she lives long enough; cancer, nerve damage, loss of the senses, etc. Time is short…