Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country, but even though I have come across many jazz fusion outfits, I think this is the first time I have come across a brutal death metal band. Formed in 2010, this is the debut full-length from the trio of Lalang (guitar, bass, the only founder member still involved), Yogga Beges (vocals) and drummer Wawan. The album also features guest appearances from Syn (Undead Daredevil), Panyawat (Intricated), Aditya (Gerogot, Raw, Brain Damage) and Ridho (Gubouckgor Rec, Infitar, Choria). The result is something which is , um, okay. Now that isn’t really a word one would ever really want associated with any form of music, especially not with this particular genre, but that is exactly what it is.

Beges’s vocals are very low indeed, both in the mix and in tone, so while I wouldn’t expect to be able to understand any of the lyrics, there are times when it is actually hard to hear them at all. The guitars have been layered and unless we are being treated to melodic interplay (which does happen at times), they just don’t have the aggression and power that one expects while the drums somehow don’t manage to tip everything over the edge. It feels way too controlled, commercial and safe, with little or no real dynamics and the result is an album which is not awful, nor is it one I will be rushing to play again. It’s just, okay.

Rating: 4/10

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/fetalbleeding.brutaldeath/
https://www.bruteprods.net/