Desde arriba es diferente

This two-track EP was the first studio recording of Ekhymosis, at that time a speed metal band with a strong influence of the classic American bands of the genre, and an active member of underground scene of Medellín, probably the city with the best metal atmosphere in Colombia during the late 80’s.

It´s a primitive recording with a poor production and dull sound, although there was a very good interpretive effort by the musicians, especially by guitarists Andrés García and Juan Aristizabal, who made an almost perfect work especially in the solos. However, creative work could be better because this album has many passages filled with generic drum lines and repetitive guitar riffs, which doesn’t allow this album to be more enjoyable.

The lyrics were inspired by the violence of Colombia on that decade, especially in their hometown Medellín, and they express a big criticism about the society. The dirty and harsh voice of “Toto” Lalinde fits well in the album's context, despite the flatness of his interpretation.

The first song “Desde arriba es diferente” (From Above Is Different) have average speed heavy guitar riffs, except in verses when becomes faster, and predominate the blast beat sound. The main riff repeats many times after the solo, in my opinion needlessly, turning this track into something boring. On the other hand, the second song “Escrito sobre el agua” (Written on Water) has more coherent vocal lines and faster guitar riffs, which in addition to the great melodies make this track superior to the previous one.

In general “Desde arriba es diferente” is an acceptable piece of Colombian speed metal, honestly nothing special compared to the following material of the band, recorded apparently with many technical difficulties, but with a big historical relevance for the metal scene of Medellín.