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DIABOLICAL
"Synergy"
(WW III/Mercenary Musik; 2006)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
More Swedish melodic death? Yes, but with harder edges and misshapen angles that define the
music. Diabolical's "Synergy" is defined by its thrashy influences, death metal speed and intensity,
and a hint of progressive flair. These three elements certainly require a 'synergy' in order to make it
all work.
Diabolical breaks up the monotony of the melodic death metal scene by delving deep into two of
metal's most ground-breaking forms: thrash and death. The thrash-like sound comes from
Diabolical's ability to hit classic chug-a-chug riffs on a dime. Death metal's two greatest features,
speed and controlled aggression, are all over "Synergy."
So where does the progressive element fit in? The peaks and valleys of the progressive interludes
and arrangements recall the type of twists and turns that Death could throw at its listeners with
ease. Complex and quick time changes and alternating styles might normally make a cluttered
sound in the hands of lesser bands, but not with Diabolical. If this sounds like a lot to take in all at once, it is; but Diabolical pull it off with great style and conviction.
It goes without saying that a band trying to meld these three styles into one cohesive whole needs
to have technical skills, and technical skills is what these guys have in abundance. The lead guitar runs are played quite high in the mix and,
for someone like me who grew up listening to guitar players high in the mix, it gave me goose bumps.
"Synergy" is one disc that is finding its way back to my CD player quite often.
For more information visit http://www.ww3music.com/.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2006 by R.
Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised:
13 Mar 2023 19:46:28 -0500 .
