A split release between these two bands is not altogether unexpected, considering Nick Emard handles the vocals and guitar for both acts. And despite both bands having a connection with Chaos Records, this split has come about through a collaboration with Seed of Doom Records.
Cystic, as a result of their ‘Palace of Shadows’ album, were described in our review as a blend of rotten Death Metal, where Grindcore and Doom influences can be heard – a mix akin to Carcass, Viogression, Grief, and Repulsion. On this split, Cystic’s track, ‘Abysmal Tundra’, serves as a prime example of their artistry when it comes to Death Metal with Doom influences, in a proper 90s style.
Degraved offers the listener ‘Infinite Fissures of Shadow’. Chugging Old School Death Metal, imagine Funebrarum, Undergang… such practices, with both fitting production and low growl. Once again, the dark haunting lead guitar work at the end fits perfectly, much like they managed on ‘Whispered Morbidity’ from the self-titled EP.
Without a shadow of a doubt, a thoroughly enjoyable split.
