Blood Oath

Here comes another album by the mighty Suffocation. This album rebuilds any lost faith in the band (if anything like that has happened at all). This album hits one in the fucking face right at the start of its opening title track. For me, Suffocation has always been consistent. I have loved every single thing they have put out since the Reincremation demo. This album just adds to this very consistent catalogue.

Speed wise, this album is a little faster than its self titled predecessor. It does have its fair share of slow breakdowns, but it also has a lot more blast beats. It also seems that Mike Smith has used triggers on the bass drum this time, but it doesn't negatively affect the overall sound of this album. He absolutely crushes everything in his way. I think I would need to get on to individual aspects of this album to explain things better:

Vocals- As always, classic Frank Mullen vocals. They are same as on the self titled and also Souls to Deny. Growled, no screams, not as low as pre Despise the Sun era but still fit the music perfectly. Also, some backing shouts of "truth" in the song Provoking the Disturbed sound amazing and give a greater appeal to the song. And not to forget the re-recording of Marital Decimation which is perfectly done.

Guitars- Terrance and Guy never disappoint with their playing. The overall tone of the guitars is a little dryer in this album as compared to any other of their albums. But that’s something related to the production of this album. Same old tremolo picked parts, insane speed, nice solos (though I personally prefer the solos on Effigy much more than the ones on this one) and awesome sounding riffs always keep the listener hooked on to the album.

Bass-This Suffocation album has the most audible bass ever. Derek is a pure genius. I have always liked what he has done for this band. The bass perfectly compliments the twin guitar attack, though, if there were more bass solos on this album, I would have wanted to give it score of 150%.

Drums-Mike Smith WILL NEVER disappoint. Period.

Overall, this album, in my opinion, defines the sound of modern death metal, and also should be a blueprint as to what brutal death metal should sound like.

Stand out tracks-Blood Oath, Provoking the Disturbed, Images of Purgatory, Cataclysmic Purification.