The Terminal Archetype

Wow, what a ride and great surprise! Completely out of blue comes this debut EP titled “The Terminal Archetype” by the Russian commando Renunciation, blowing 99% of all other debut effort out of the water. This band has been formed in 2019, but it seems that all members are or have been active in other outfits as well – which explains the insanely high level of professionalism and maturity put into this only 20 minutes long work. Being deeply impressed I thought this EP deserves a few words so let’s get the party started.

The record starts with a nice piano intro, which leads into the first real track “Deliverance from God” shortly after, hammering away in fierce style. The combination of rhythm and lead guitars is one of the big highlights here, as well as the balance between straight rocking chords and captivating harmonies. Short soloing parts are used to interconnect the different sections of the songs and build a transition from chaotic parts to more straight forward moments.

The dynamic of the EP can be addicting at its best, with crushing and subtly melodic on one side and depressing and ecstatic on the other. The constant interaction between the driving and chugging main chords and the often crazy lead guitar is breathtaking. The melodies are often weird and haunting, but sometimes also have a more relaxed and slightly melancholic nature. Some of the harmonies show hints of progressive undertones, with some of the key sequences having a slightly unorthodox feeling.

The machine gun drumming is very much at the front-end of the mix. The sound gives the album the feeling of a modern technical death metal output in some ways. Paired with some atmospheric harmonies they make up for a nihilistic and bleak mood, combining the best elements from both black and death metal as well as some thrash like patterns. This mix of sub-genres is also reflected by the absolutely devastating vocals. Singer Demether is roaring like an ancient beast, lifting the music to the next level.

The production is flawless. The mix is very dynamic, with the guitars sounding crunchy and the lead harmonies getting room to work their magic. I have no idea who did the recording, but it is hard to believe that this is a more or less independent release by a new and unknown band. All in all “The Terminal Archetype” is a great appetizer for things to come and should be checked out by each open-minded fan of the genre.