A.c.o.D is determined to put France on the death/trash metal scene. To the Maelstrom, the 3rd long flight of the Marseillais really create a landmark besides their local city club (despite its demise in recent years).
The band clearly want to create their space on an all crowded metal genre, very strict to its rule. And most important to their ideas.
Not so much aligned with European vision of metal, A.c.o.D drag their resemblances to the strong and imposing idea of southern metal w/ Slayer and Lamb of God as their banner-bearers.
The guitar affinity for sludge and high compassing riffs from start to finish, pretty much define the LP’s rhythm. Strike hard, Strike fast. Strike ruthless.
Fred’s vocals are constant, and do not compromise a second the death metal way. Only Shawter from Dagoba gives the album and the vocal tone a bit of smoothness.
In fact, it takes a while to have a sense of release. Not until Fallen we were not able to release ourselves of the loose freight train. RAF’s drums makes is best to remember it, filling the landscape w/ a powerful double pedal.
Along with Jerome, and J.B. they provide a systematic and omnipresent rhythmic section, enabling Fred’s vocal and Chris lead guitars to surface.
In fact, the choice for a duo guitar players delivers contrast and balance visible in long track such as Crimson, leveling up w/ Fred for high tone sections, which is relentless.
Although w/ a great sound production, we feel here is really good instrumental growth potential. The Fallen and To the Maelstrom arpeggio sections are really reverberating and really leave space to a more landscape and introspective scenario.
7/10
Words by Vasco Baptista
