Originally written by Patrick Dawson
For the uninitiated, the cult status of 2001’s Lord of Storms cemented this band as American death metal heavy hitters; it also raised the bar of expectation considerably for their long awaited second album. Producing music in as obscure a place as Arkansas combined with the inherent mystique of a superb first album by a little known band is, in any circle, a recipe for fan disappointment with the second outing. When a band ends up with an album that receives name drop status among the most discerning of fans it’s almost as if an expectation of failure is placed upon them to cement that one album in time as classic.
Vore are bound by no such expectations; crossing the mountainous range of presumptions with ease, this veritable panzer division of death metal rumble across the pass leaving nothing but scattered bodies and burning carnage in their wake. As measured and deliberate in their assault as classic Bolt Thrower, the tactics employed on Maleficus can seem deceptively simple at times. Some of the dual guitar work and dexterous riffing even draw comparisons to the mighty Immolation if that hallowed name were caked in eons of frost and lumbering at the pace of some iron construct come awake to defend its master. Some may mention a vague resemblance to Nile due to a few well orchestrated epic and antiquated instrumentals; those seeking the speed and mindless blasting that band has built a fan base around should look elsewhere.
A rich and earthy percussion rules the pace of this album with tempered malice. Vore’s second album gives off the impression one could peek in on their practice space and hear the exact same quality both in terms of sound and skill. There is nothing over produced or falsified here. From the flawless interplay between guitar players and the unceasing percussion to the multidimensional vocal performance that uses only moderate phasing and delay for effect, this album delivers in a robust no-frills fashion. For those seeking a band well versed in the old ways who are unafraid to follow their own muse, look no further.
