Well, that was an onslaught. You ever get off a rollercoaster and need a few minutes to remember how to walk again? Yeah, that’s the feeling you get after listening to Xenobiotic’s 2020 release Mordrake. I will say often that I’m not much of a deathcore fan, there are elements that are fantastic and I get what they’re trying to do with it, but generally, it’s a bit of a novelty.
This release though meshes the deathcore with some technical death and even progressive death elements and goddamn it works well. It means that if you, like me, have never really been into deathcore, this could be the gateway drug that you have been waiting for.
The performance is impeccable as is the mastering.
This is the sort of polish that we are starting to expect from premium Aussie metal bands. Did I say premium? Yep, I said premium. I’m gonna just leave that there. The guitar tone is strong but not overstated as can be the case in Xenobiotic’s deathcore counterparts. The voice is varied and interesting, and as you all know, I like my interesting vocals. There are elements of emotional moments of clean and haunting guitar that give you a chance to catch your breath before entering yet another round of vicious attack.
The only criticism that I think a fan may have is that there isn’t a great difference between this release and the last – but that’s me putting on my kvult hat and complaining.
This release kills, and you should listen to it. Suitable for those who get sick on rollercoasters.
Release Year: 2020
Label: Unique Leader
Category: Album
Country: Australia
Reviewed by Liam Frost-Camilleri
