Deleted Scenes from the Transition Hospital

Axis of Perdition - Deleted Scenes from the Transition Hospital

Have you ever woken up in a hospital room covered in filth, only to find yourself venturing outside into a nightmare-filled world? Me neither, but that's exactly what the United Kingdom's Axis of Periditon seems to be about. Axis of Perdition is one of those bands that pops up out of absolutely nowhere, seemingless indistinguishable between the other underground artists, only to give you a sweet, sweet brick to the face filled with reality. Although they feature current Bal-sagoth drummer Dan Mullins, don't be expecting any symphonic viking metal here. This is a unique blend of black metal and dark ambient music. If you have ever played the Silent Hill series, you'll have a good idea as to what the band derives their sound from.

Instrumentally, the album is chaotic and over-distorted. The vocals at almost all times are audible, but not understandable due to the large amount of effects used. Guitars on this album are chaotic and don't seem to follow any certain rhythmic pattern. They used a drum machine for this studio effort which, for once, doesn't get in the way of the music. It simply adds more to the atmosphere. All in all, this album was probably never created to be a musical powerhouse. It accomplishes what it set out to do -- create an eerie atmosphere capable of getting the listener to breathe heavy in anticipation as to what may be around the corner. If you're into metal for the thrashyness, the grimness, or for the melodics, this album isn't for you. If you're interested in surrounding yourself with the most insanely bloody atmosphere you can imagine possible through music, this album is perfect for you.

Relevant band(s): Mine[thorn]

Recommended Tracks: (1) Pendulum Prey, (2) This, then, is Paradise?, (3) In the Gauze

Rating: 5/5

[Originally written for the Pivotal Rage webzine.]