Calcined - To Rot In A Honeybeam

The Swiss band Calcined presents their third album, "To Rot In A Honeybeam", under the powerful French label Great Dane Records. Formed in 2008, they released a demo in 2009, followed by a split and then an EP, before finally delivering their debut album "Tormenting Attractions" in 2015. This was followed by "Discipline" (2018), and after a few years, they have now added another crushing chapter to their collection. Calcined's style is death metal infused with intricate sections, brutal aggression, and an ever-lurking grindcore spirit that haunts the nine tracks of this album. Alongside the intriguing album title, the track names themselves are equally compelling.

"Poaching Among The Starry Fields" kicks things off with venomous, fast, pounding, and technical riffs. A flawless bass line supports brutal drumming filled with relentless blast beats, while cavernous and aggressive vocals—less guttural and more biting than traditional death metal growls—add a unique identity to the band's sound.

"Autolysis" continues the massacre, combining the brutality of Cannibal Corpse with the ferocity of Napalm Death. Slower sections are woven into the chaos, offering a diverse and well-rounded composition.

"Scourge Cloud" begins with a technical death metal vibe reminiscent of the '90s. A mid-track section reinforces this nostalgic nod, all without compromising the band's sheer brutality. The guitar solo stands out, and the track still retains flashes of grindcore madness.

"Hic Sunt Dracones" showcases Calcined's exceptional ability to align guitars and drums seamlessly. At times, they might remind listeners of Dying Fetus, with technical grooves and blistering riffs. However, these references are merely echoes—the band carves out their own distinct identity.

"The Dungeon Master" could easily be mistaken for a Dying Fetus track, with its blend of brutality, technique, and speed packed into three relentless minutes.

"Ashen Flowers" opens with a more restrained, almost hardcore vibe, before escalating into violent, rapid sections filled with technical precision and blast beats. The track incorporates a range of styles, from thrash to brutal death metal.

"I Pity The Strong" delivers sheer brutality combined with groove elements, technical prowess, and a sense of frantic intensity. The unrelenting energy remains a hallmark of the album from start to finish.

"Are You Scared" maintains Calcined's signature intensity. It's refreshing to clearly hear the bass in a death metal production, adding depth to the ferocious mix.

"Discipline" closes the album with a slightly longer track that crams in countless riffs and stylistic shifts. From melodic solos to acoustic passages, thrash influences, and their trademark savage brutality, it's a fitting end to an intense sonic journey.

The band lineup consists of Piffeux (Bass and Backing Vocals), Lionel (Drums), Magnus (Lead Vocals), and Jack (Guitars). Outstanding work, gentlemen.

This is an album that demands multiple listens. At first, it might come across as raw and unforgiving, but with focused attention, its layers of complexity become clear. And if you listen with a good pair of headphones, you'll truly appreciate every nuance of this sonic assault.

4 / 5 STARS