Suffocation. 25 years (with a break or two in there). 7 albums. 2 EPs. Now that might not seem like a lot, but in those 25 years, Suffocation have influenced tons of bands, whether those bands be good or not is a null argument. You don't write 7 albums of pure ass-kicking-slamming-death-
Opening with 'Cycles of Suffering' it's apparent that any naysayers can shut their mouths. Guitarists Terrance Hobbs and Guy Marchais are locked tight with complicated rhythms that are still easy enough to bang your head to. Derek Boyer's bass is audible and deep through the entire album. Newcomer drummer Dave Culross (who did a 2 year stint in the band before) plays complicated yet grooving beats. The guy is a perfect replacement. And Mr.Banter Between Songs himself Frank Mullen is the same Frank you expect. Growls of a demon coming from his throat that wants to take control. Same Suffocation you know and love. Only better.
Next track 'Purgatorial Punishment' is all chug and groove, leading to a devil summoning solo that would make your mother cry. Lead "single" 'As Grace Descends' is a an upbeat blast with awesome hooks. Good music has hooks. And this song is a butcher shop. And, you guessed it, another glorious solo mixed in. The trick to Suffocation's craft is that they never sacrifice the songs for technicality. Sure, the songs may be all over the musical chart. But they keep the GROOVE.
Closing track 'Beginning of Sorrow'....forget about it. The concept of this album is the aftermath of the end of the world, and you have your soundtrack to survival; keeping you ready to scratch and crawl your way to the end.
Plain and simple, Suffocation have delivered their best album yet. They've become amazing musician and songwriters over the years, and know how to mix the two together. Representing Long Island New York. HAIL & RESPECT!!!!!!
Be sure to puck up Pinnacle of Bedlam, available now through Nuclear Blast. And also go see Suffocation live in the US through April, and May and June in Europe
