Cadaveric Possession – Vortex of Undying Hatred

Cadaveric Possession hails from Poland. That alone should entice anyone with a strong love for fetid underground music. The three-piece in question released their sophomore record ‘Vortex Of Undying Hatred’ back in 2022 on Putrid Cult Records. One quick look at the album cover assumes nothing but occult tainted Metal, but what will the disc beyond it reveal?

The first track doubles both as intro and title track. With it, it sets the tone for the album to come and it does so in perfect manner. ‘Vortex Of Undying Hatred’ proves soon to be an album that puts primitive metal high on its swampy pedestal. There’s nothing fancy to be found in Cadaveric Possessions sound. The riffs roar about in an old school fashion where Black and Death Metal meet. At times the riffs feel reminiscent of Beherit (‘The Oath Of Black Blood’) and Blasphemy (‘Fallen Angel Of Doom’), only a bit slower and with a Thash Metal undertone. Musically, Cadaveric Possession offer little innovation to the Extreme Metal underground. However, I’m convinced that was never the aim. This band plays homage to the kind of Metal that will always dwell in the underground. These Poles just want to play together, gather a small amount of following and just pour their hearts into the music they love.

The vocals are drenched in reverb, adding to the eerie atmosphere on this disc. They too have a very gruffy sound which matches the crunchiness of the guitars all too well. In fact, the whole production on this album is quite gruffy and dry. The drums especially feel very dry and underproduced. In my opinion, the sound of the drums is the primary colouring of a production. If the drums are produced thinly, that will then reflect in the whole mix overall. This is especially noteworthy on ‘Vortex Of Undying Hatred’. The rehearsal-like quality of the drum tone is dominating the overall mix (which in turn is what the overall mix brings across). It’s down to the personal preference of the listener whether this is to taste, but it adds a doze of authenticity and sincerity. I greatly appreciate an approach like this.

Cadaveric Possession have delivered an album that consists of songs designed to the spirit of the ugly Extreme Metal They love. It too compels to put on the battle jacket, dim the lights, grab a drink and submerge yourself in true cavernous underground Metal. Records like these are designed to be enjoyed whilst in the moment, but will unfortunately lack sticking power.