USURPER
"Necronemesis"
(Necropolis)
"Visions From the Gods" (Necropolis)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Usurper's brand of no frills American true metal/death metal mix avoids
trends like the plague. For some metal heads that might be music to their ears; for me, it's just another reason to listen
to Meshuggah.
Usurper are kill-joys to the maximum allowed under cosmic musical law; death, mayhem,
destruction, and other dark and evil things are the main topics of "Necronemesis."
Usurper has bravado working in their favor - Usurper are true believers in their musical craft and
lifestyle. It doesn't matter what you classify Usurper as (underground metal, true metal) - the purity
must be recognized. As far as the music goes what was once seen as vulgar and ugly is now seen
almost seen as eloquent; the metal riffing of "Funereal Waters" cuts across many metal genres. But
the bottom line is whether or not anything as good as "Visions From The Gods" or "Charon" is on
"Necronemesis." Such is not the case, although "Deathwish" and "1666 AD" rise above the
maelstrom as tunes that have memorable riffs and hooks.
"Necromesis" was produced by Kol Marshall (King Diamond, Mercyful Fate). The production is
good, yet still retains the unpolished style of the underground.
Usurper is Diabolical Slaughter on vokills, Rick "Rigor" Scythe on guitars, Necromancer on bass, and Dave Hellstorm on drums. New guitarist Carcass Chris will be joining the band in touring support of "Necronemesis." The legendary King Diamond contributed vocals to the title track.
For more information visit http://www.necropolisrec.com.
"Visions
From the Gods" (Necropolis)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Usurper are a throwback to the old days of extreme heavy metal when
black metal, thrash, and death metal could be combined to a trend-free, potent, violent whole. "Visions From The Gods" is a collection of
original demos, unreleased tracks, and live material from throughout Usurper's career.
"Visions From The Gods" makes more noise than a monster truck show! This disc rattles like two heavy pieces of steel being banged against
each other (I mean that in a good way). Usurper stays clear of trendy, overwrought styles of metal; you won't hear any modern
Scandinavian black metal or overly technical Floridian death metal when Usurper tear
it up. Usurper's lack of acknowledgement of current styles is actually their strength - Usurper's return to the metal of the old days is a
refreshing path taken by very few bands in recent memory.
The raging maelstrom that is Usurper re-kindles the kind of kick ass tunes that have been missing for the last few years. Highlights include
the molten thrash of "Soulstalker," the entirely satisfying "Charon,"
and the live rendering of "Blood Passion." "Deep In The Forest" slays the competition with undeniable brutality while the guitar work on the
title track is like an itchy trigger finger hell-bent on wanton destruction. The balance of killer riffing and growling vocals on
"Dusk" is near perfection for the genre. The relentless, double-bass drumming which is suitable for some, but not exactly my favorite. The
ominous lyrics instill a bit of theater to the unfolding drama of each new track.
The less-than-stellar production takes away from the overall impact of
"Visions From The Gods," but the power and force of the performances ring true. Fans of Witchery,
Deathwitch, and Abominator will like Usurper's "Visions From The Gods." Usurper have toured with
heavyweights such as Enthroned, Hecate Enthroned, Cradle Of Filth, and Dark Funeral - this is clear evidence that Usurper can go toe-to-toe
with heavy metal's elite.
Usurper is Diabolic Slaughter on vokills, Rick 'Rigor' Scythe on
guitars, Dave Hellstorm, and Necromancer on bass. Other musicians include Apocalyptic Warlord on drums.
For more information visit http://www.necropolisrec.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.
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