Grave Alter

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Band(s): Grave Alter
Label(s): Self-Released
Release Format(s): Demo, Digital
Release Year: 2024
Review Date: May 1, 2024
Author(s): FelixS

Last year I stumbled upon Grave Alter’s self-titled first demo, a 3-tracker that showed a certain appreciation of Mortician-styled gore-drenched Death Metal. Now, exactly one year later, also released on Valentine’s Day, Shar Clay offers us this new demo. He is still helming this musical project on his own, but that is basically really the only thing that remained the same from last year’s demo.

Not only did Clay opt for a new logo, the musical direction is completely different as well. The Mortician appreciation might still be there, but it is no longer reflected through the music. Instead these four tracks (not counting the intro) can be found more into the chaotic Black/Death/Grind territories. In just under 20 minutes the music bludgeons itself through thick layers of riffs and skull crushing drums. But it is not only about sonic violence, a track like ‘Black Psalm’ has an eerie and almost Funeral Doom like ending that reminded me a bit of early Imindain. Also the slow, grinding guitar sound of the closing track offers something that is completely different from last year’s demo, but adds to a more dynamic and compelling soundscape. If one tip has to be given, it should be to invest in a way to make the drums sound less plastic/digital to prevent them to sound a bit all too flat, especially in the slow bits, it does detract somewhat from the result.

I personally enjoyed the band’s first demo, but it is clear that Clay has more to offer. ‘Demo II’ is a proof that he is pushing his boundaries and exploring his musical ambitions. That is exactly what demos are for and I thoroughly enjoyed being on this adventurous ride with Grave Alter.

VM-UNDERGROUND

Extreme Metal Fanzine est. 2012

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Grave Alter – Demo II [Demo]

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