Album Review: Bloodbeat - Process of Extinction
Reviewed by Paul Hutchings
There is an absolute avalanche of death metal being released on a weekly basis at present. Our weekly list for reviewer selection inevitably contains at least 30-40% death metal albums. So, when it comes to choosing which ones to review, it’s a mix of careful consideration or in my case, a lucky punt and a hope that it’ll be decent.
Well, I’ve struck solidly on this release because’ Process of Extinction’, the second release by Berlin death metal mutants Bloodbeat is crammed full of old school HM-2 flavours, savage riffs, gruff vocals and pounding drums. Yes, everything is in place with 37 minutes of frenetic thrash-tinged death. There are certainly echoes of Entombed about their sound but that isn’t a bad thing in this case as Bloodbeat also add a contemporary feel to their music which brings it roaring into 2021 with gusto.
The explosive ‘Creative Murder’ is a pretty solid opener with vocalist Jason Kuhn’s gravel-soaked vocal delivery bringing an immediate impact, raging above the frenetic thrashing that battles all about. It’s solid, ferocious death metal that should induce slamming pits and many a sore neck when played live. If there was a soundtrack for being run over by a steamroller, then this would undoubtedly be it.
Whilst Bloodbeat stick closely to the blueprint, the searing guitar breaks on tracks such as the battering ‘Pulse’ provide some variation whilst the underlying groove on the Pantera-esque ‘No Control’ is secured by reliable engine room of bassist Fux and drummer Paul Hopp, both making their recording debut with the band. It’s fast and intense, with the sheer pace of ‘Intention to Kill’ another punishing beast of a track.
Overall, this is another quality, bruising and brutal release that stands comfortably alongside some of the heavyweight releases of the year. It’s certainly an album that I was happy to have repeat listens to whilst reviewing … and that is a good sign.
