Revelation

Technical death metal can become quite exhausting. Of course the tag “technical” implicates a certain level of instrumental show-offs and complex build-ups. That being said weaving all this sophisticated craziness into stringent songs is what divides the few good and interesting bands from the rest. One such album is “Revelation”, the second full length by German outfit Controversial.

Of course the lads have put a lot of emphasis on technical perfection and a nice mixture of straight forward and hammering grooves and more complex arrangements. While most of the trademark riffs should sound familiar to any fan of the genre the two guitarists Emil and Hendrik have implemented some disharmonic sounding elements lending the whole affair a weird and slightly disturbing atmosphere. Often the lead melodies dive into melancholic and eerie spheres and the sometimes chaotic nature makes the listener feel a bit uncomfortable. It feels like a relieve once such hectic chords transform into straight rocking parts, highlighting the intensity of the music.

The drumming is fierce and relentless, but there are also sections where it is more straight-forward keeping the beat straight and giving the whole music a lot of groove. The mixture of progressive fills and rhythm changes and those linear pieces make the drumming a real highlight. There are quite a lot of staccato riffs and start-stop sections, but they feel well implemented and part of the complete picture.

It speaks for the band that even though the first spin might lead to the impression that the music is a bit messy consecutive listens will make the consumer realize that the songwriting is spot on. The complex hyper-speed parts are often interrupted by slow-down pieces and rhythm changes, making the next blast-beat attacks even more intense. What really sets Controversial apart from a lot of their peers is the use of highly melodic harmonies and interludes, sometimes even reminding of some classic Gothenburg stuff.

The production is modern but has an immense punch. Mixing and mastering are flawless with all instruments being well balanced. The guitars are thick and crunchy and the drum sound is powerful without sounding like plastic. The powerful growling and screaming by vocalist Jonas is also well embedded in the mix. Rounded off by an atmospheric and noble artwork fans of this sub-genre will be on the safe side with this release.