Sthoopa

[Intro] - Rite of the opening riff of the introductory track 'Sattva Bali' instantly begins contributing towards a sombre atmosphere of a ritualistic sacrifice to be held on these old and forgotten lands. Sadistic warlocks awaken fallen legions with enchantments and incantations in olden Kanarese dialect.

NWOBHM inherited guitar solos and the reworked riffs paraphrase and reinforce this old school melodic death metal. The guitar work done here inscribes into a classic metal skeletal comprising that of legends such as Bolt Thrower, Miasma, Convulse (and others) have passed down. This young band plays commendable music. No fuss. Downright death metal for a very refreshing listening experience! Sincere and to the point. Upon a few early listens, we may notice that there are certain similarities in the mid-sections of each composition that tend to be a bit identical to one another. However, upon intent listens it will unveil its differentiations. The melodic solos churn very well in transition with the music. Patterns vary and mature as if the record is being carefully nurtured over time to grow upon its listener. Dhwesha is a new branch of the melodic death metal's musical roots on the Indian soil that affirms its fraternity with honour and pride.

After (almost) discerning the lyrics and the song titles, the overall experience of the music is greatly enhanced. For example, the song ‘Sabhe’ on the album is a generalized take on the subject about a coven of witches congregating in a forest around a ritual fire. Another example is the first track which speaks of a twisted tradition of power, sacrifice and eventually the downfall of a tyranny by one's own kin. The intention of this band is very evident; playing old school death metal with lyrics comprising of events from ancient Indian history and wars alike. Musical influences from the European death metal scene are quite obvious. The track Hoy! Sala reeks of early Bolt Thrower.

The simple approach on each song shows its effectiveness. Like any slow poison, every track seeps into your veins. A voodoo-like trance is induced. Though the overall strategy is the same, to devise chord variations that greatly leads the role of the commanders-in-chief, Somesha Sridhara and Ajay Nagraj, they strategize a battle plan; keep the combatants engaged. Conjuring a doomsphere with universal formulae of simple yet effective riffage blankets our silent movements into the enemy encampment. The subtleties implemented on this album function like a successful covert operative, keeping things interesting. This is the formulative secret behind the replayability of this disc. With such attention to detail, this does indicate the seriousness behind making this album.

Another elemental factor here is the production. It captures the purpose of the intended music perfectly! Keeping both the sound and the overall feel ancient. The resonating guitars are well maintained, while not being overbearing and simultaneously being aware of the presence of its other comrades, the bass and the drums. The underlying guitar work during chorus lines is graceful in itself. Covering each track with a fog of war like effect that is self-revealing as these songs play through. Reverberating vocals are placed in the background and are done quite tastefully. It tends to have a lasting effect on the listener, where the need to repeatedly listen to (specific) tracks or the whole album is realised. Mixing and mastering is done by Srikanth Panaman (band-Bevar Sea) at The Doom's Cave, Bangalore. The atmosphere created on the record truly invokes a passage to the ancients. The track Kapala Haara should very well outline the above made description.

The album as a whole withstands very strongly. All of the tracks are carefully crafted to express a grateful joy and the hard work put in to create this towering pillar of excellence! The victory drums play aloud indicating another triumph is at hand on the battlefield.

[Outro] - The beacon fire of Sthoopa burns high amongst those who are remembered and the ones that will be remembered.

Note - Review marks are deducted only due to certain issues on a few tracks. A bit unsatisfactory and unsavoury at times. None the less, Up the IRONS!!