One has got to look to the likes of Necrovation and now Tribulation for the way they have evolved from the Swedish Death Metal sound. Sure, it is great that the likes of Entrails, Sorcery and co have returned to keep the legacy alive, but I heard Dismember, Grave, Unleashed and more do it each about 10 times already, so the 'new' feeling is gone. Just hear Tribulation's latest album, 'The Formulas of Death'. So different and refreshing and one of the most unique death metal albums this year.
Think of how Dissection was. Primarily death metal but leaned to the black metal element. Tribulation may not have that cold presence to them, but darkness, the epic touch, the tremolo melodies and leads and that distinct pace is all there. The riffs may not have the cold raw tone, instead a deep and dark shade. They even come up with plenty of cleaner melodies drenched in effect to add a more strange effect.
Many passages take place in structures of these songs. Speeding rhythms to galloping breaks, also slowing it down and even cleaner journeys or just eerie discordance with the lead work. It is very progressive actually. The harsh vocals with the slight echo in Johannes voice is perfect for this also. Shrilled and cold against the dark and murky sound and lyrically so dark and evil. Simply put, Tribulation has stepped away from the brutal, raw and rumbling depths and has taken to the dirty waters smothered by a thick mist.
It is a long listen. 75 minutes at that but worth every minute due to its diversity. This is the type of dark, bleak atmosphere I look for in heavy music. One that is daring, breaking from tradition and with that, Tribulation has found their own place. I remember seeing them in Oslo in 2010 and even then they were flirting a little with new ideas but I didn't think it would be as impressive as this.
This will be one of my albums of the year for sure. If more bands follow this direction led by Tribulation and Necrovation, then I will certainly be all for it!
Ikil
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