Originally written by Jason Lawrence
I can’t be sure, but I am pretty positive that everyone that listened to Usurper’s last album Twilight Dominion (at least those whom liked it) figured that their new album Cryptobeast, would also be good. Usurper has been nothing if not consistent for the duration of their career thus far. They have re-welcomed their old drummer Joe Apocalyptic Warlord (whom destroys the kit on this album.) They have also replaced their longtime vocalist with new blood: Dan Tyrantor. Dan is certainly a worthy replacement if I have ever heard one, and Diabolical Slaughter’s completely Celtic Frost styled vocals are no more, as a more Death growl approach has been adopted. In my (not so) humble opinion, Usurper found the perfect new front man in Tyrantor. Dan’s vocals are full of alcohol induced monstrosity, an extremely enraged and passionate vocalist that goes straight for your jugular.
The sound on Cryptobeast is even harder to categorize than earlier efforts, still seamlessly blending elements of various sounds throughout the Thrash, Death and first generation Black Metal genres. I can say in all honesty that Usurper draw at least 90% of their influence from the formative sounds of the extreme metal genres forged in the late 1980’s. Usurper are still not afraid to use huge, crushing riffs that sound as if they could have crawled out of the pits of hell themselves. While the guitar tone isn’t as insanely heavy as on Twilight Dominion, it is still extremely potent, and with a near perfect production on Cryptobeast, it only adds to the domination that is laid down on the plate. Usurper are possibly about as ‘Metal’ as you can get, up there with the likes of Destroyer 666 and Sodom – and a metal war anthem like “Kill for Metal” is obviously intended to show you that, just like the whole of this album. This is certainly nothing progressive, experimental or forward thinking. Cryptobeast is what it is: a hulking demonic beast of oppressive Metallic destruction. Usurper is the type of band that vomits blood on bands like Atreyu, and buries the mainstream in grave dirt and alcoholic fury. Approach this with caution, those afraid of pure, unbridled extremity. Those whom know Usurper know the deal… drag the spikes and studs out of the closet, set the speakers on 11 and prepare to thrash: Usurper is back and they have not disappointed. I can honestly say I believe this is the best album the Chicago necrothrashers have ever made. I’ll be sorely disappointed if I am left without a U.S. tour for this album. As good as Cryptobeast is on a CD in the safety of your own home, I can’t imagine what it would be like brought to me by these demons themselves with the legions of metal surrounding me. I know this review was fairly brief, but I believe I have said all that needs to be said! This is an instant favorite!
Buy this if you dare to think you are Metal enough!
… Or if you’re planning on getting drunk, ever.
