Behemoth – “Demigod”
The ever-faster speed assault that has characterized the evolution of this band now reaches the point where it just sounds impossible for them to get any faster, maniacal and frenzied. They sound downright invincible here. The blazing, razor-blade sharp blasting sounds like it will collapse unto itself. I think 2005 is theirs for the taking. The vocals are guttural as can be, but, overall, distinctive and strong, with only moments of multiple layering making me suspicious. The guitar work can only be described as underground death metal of the Brazilian-Polish-U.S. style. Now that the major Polish band of this style, Vader, seems to have settled into a slower groove, Behemoth is hungry to be the kings of blazing speed. The one factor that has to be mentioned is the fact that the songs, while strong all the way through, do not have the downright greatness of Nile. Finally, this is the type of album that makes some people doubt whether there is any cheating going on (by way of studio tricks). Go see them live and make up your own mind.