Originally written by Jeremy Garner
Before now I wasn’t too familiar with Grind Ethic, but now Enthrallment has me browsing their back catalogue looking for more death metal diamonds in the rough. As a rule of thumb, I try not to expect much from comparable bands, but every now and then, a release comes along that makes you glad you took a chance.
I’m sure by now you’re wondering what the material on Smashed Brain Collection sounds like if the cover art didn’t give it away? Here’s the sound in a nutshell – Have you heard Cannibal Corpse? Have you heard Severe Torture? Okay, now imagine the two sounds together juxtaposed and form an idea of what that would sound like. Got it? Yep, it really is that simple, that’s Enthrallment. I would have liked a bit more originality or distinction, but alas. What they lack in style they make up with an absolutely vicious execution.
If Enthrallment had played any other style I’d venture quickly to mention that the production flat out sucks, but for whatever reason, this sort of sound always seems to fit so well with the style. The low end completely gutted from the guitars, the vocals way too high in the mix, and the drums are completely devoid of any fullness besides the ever-present machine gun snare blasts and over beefed kicks. The only real thickness comes from the bass (yes, it’s actually audible), but I’ve got to admit though everything carries a level of authenticity, they work their sound surprisingly well. But despite my nitpicking, Smashed Brain Collection still has force behind it.
To their advantage, Enthrallment know damn well how to deliver musically. While some of the songs may meander here and there (which I’d attribute mainly to inexperience rather than ineptitude), the delivery actually makes ample use of variation and contrast instead of centering their attack. “Carnal Affection”, “Experiment with you” and “Graveyard” carry enough slam and groove to keep a Dying Fetus fan bobbing their head to the punchy rhythms add an effective backdrop to the more efficient “Total Zombie Domination”, “Supporting the Chaos and Hate”, and “Awaiting the Death” surge forward with full throttle brutality. The more emotive “Disgruntled” and mid paced rumble of “Mutant” still open the sound to change while offering no cessation for even the most avid Pyaemia fan.
I’m not usually the biggest fan of most splatter death, but I’ve got to admit, this is an exemplary attempt. Really, what it all boils down to is whether or not this form of classic brutality appeals to you. If so, Enthrallment may well be a worthy addition to your collection. As long as you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into and you’re not looking for something to expand your listening horizons, there’s no room for disappointment.
