Out of nowhere: Entomophthora from Norway! Tom Wahl and Roger Isaksen have been roaming the Norwegian Extreme Metal scene for over two decades now (whether as current, former, or live members of Bethzaida, Keep of Kalessin, or Nexorum), and have chosen to combine their lethal forces in this Death Metal entity called Entomophthora.
For those expecting pure Old School aggression upon seeing the logo, spotting Sepultura’s ‘Mass Hypnosis’ cover on the tracklist, or simply because we’re dealing with veterans of the scene, I’ll have to disappoint you, as the sound and approach are very much modern. Plenty of Black Metal-like moments, performed through a Death Metal lens. And when we say “modern,” we’re unmistakably steering towards contemporary Blackened Death Metal.
The use of synths isn’t shied away from, dissonance is present, and there’s variation between up-tempo, mid-tempo, and even slower passages. However, after several listens, I can only conclude that it doesn’t really stick with me.
In my opinion, not a convincing record, but give it a shot if today’s Blackened Death Metal bands appeal to you.
