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Album Review: Dying Fetus – Reign Supreme

Album Review: Dying Fetus
Reign Supreme
Relapse Records

The dark triad of death metal, otherwise known as Dying Fetus is at it again with another powerful release aptly titled Reign Supreme. Arguably heavier and tighter since becoming a three-piece after the release of 2007’s War of Attrition, Dying Fetus is still somehow underappreciated as one of death metal’s pioneers. Churning out album after album of unparalleled groove focused death metal, the band still gets shafted on major tours with unworthy time slots and short sets: Metal Alliance 2012 and Summer Slaughter 2011 case in point. Perhaps this is the fortune of death metal bands in general, no matter how great or influential- the only saving grace being that this kind of talent earns a strong cult following and Dying Fetus certainly has that.

If you follow the threads of similarity that have transcended the band’s discography since its first release Purification Through Violence (1996) Reign Supreme is a natural progression in the band’s sound. Firstly, sound quality has come a long way since the mid nineties and clarity elevates the intricacy of the band’s sludgy yet complex riffs. One of the biggest surprises of this album lurks midway through the title track. It is here that John Gallagher (guitar, vocals) whips out a melodic, soaring guitar solo. We’re not talking Mike Amott style exactly but pretty damn close considering the brutality that surrounds it.

The dynamic between John Gallagher and Sean Beasley (bass, vocals) has played a vital part in Dying Fetus’ music since Stop at Nothing (2003). Reign Supreme is no different, with Beasley resuming his role as dual front man. Despite their distinct voices, the back and forth between these two is seamless and has become a benchmark in the band’s sound. Rounding out the line-up, Trey Williams (drums), master of dynamics, knows when to pull back and decimate when needed. It’s this combination of technicality and straight-forward groove that has made Dying Fetus one of death metal’s top bands, a status only further solidified by this latest release.

Myspace.com/dyingfetus

By: Alxs Ness

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