Mortician's Apprentice

Sledgehammer Autopsy’s first demo provides for an entertaining listen but lacks replayability, hampered by what feels like a rushed writing and recording process. However, the way the music is presented suggests that this grindcore band, influenced by a fair amount of old-school death, do not want this release to be taken too seriously. This is evident in the humorous song titles such as “Bluuh!” and “Pointless Screaming”, as well as the amusing sampled intros.


Nonetheless, the music itself is dark, cutting, and fast, an interesting counterpoint to the lighthearted way they are presented. Originality in riffs are compromised for speed and an unrelenting attack that only pauses for a breather in the slower “Gates to Hell”. As you would expect from a grindcore release, all songs are very short, the longest one clocking in at less than three minutes. Vocals are low pitched, adding to the music’s brooding atmosphere. Most songs combine a mix of grindcore gurgles, pig grunts, and Karl Sander-esque vocals located at a demented near sub-bass frequency, which are especially well done.


Regarding the recording and production, it is very DIY, evident in the background fuzz. This is both a gain and loss. The raw attitude of the musicians and their music is clearly transmitted, but clarity of sound and cohesion is also sacrificed to an extent, at times making it detrimental to the music. The guitar sound could definitely benefit with more definition and thickness; at times, it is hard to hear what the guitars are playing because they are too thin. The synchronization of the instruments could also be a tad improved, as evident in the sloppy guitar and drum interaction throughout “Entomophobia. Drums, by the way, are programmed, and for the most part they are adequately done, though like the riffs, they could be more original and captivating. The bass is rumbling, undefined, and muddies up the production, but its presence can be felt behind the guitars and drums. Along with the Sander-esque vocals, the bass creates a dark atmosphere but it is hard to tell what notes are being played most of the time. It could definitely be given more high-end definition next time round, and also be raised in the mix.


Despite its shortcomings, Sledgehammer Autopsy’s first demo is a worthy effort, and is definitely worth the time for any grindcore fans that like their music fast and dirty with lots of DIY spirit. Perhaps next time, SA could take more time writing and recording to improve on the points as listed above.


Choice cuts: "This Is Your War"