The DevilsHorns

It has been 15 years since Russian death metal outfit, Cranial Osteotomy released their debut album, ‘Victim of Wicked Sickness’. In that time, the guys have worked on their sophomore album, Vortex of the Dark Knowledge. But 15 years eh? It is almost like a new beginning.

This is a short album. Even though it has 10 tracks, it lasts just short of 32 minutes, and so you know that this is going to be all out attack, with brutal aggression and unfiltered menace. It is, apart from the intro instrumental track which is irrelevant.

by the drummer and, in my mind, throws all the good stuff happening elsewhere, such as the great chugging riff, the deep grunted vocals and excellent guitar tone, into the bin. I hate tinny drums. So, a conscious decision was made to force personal taste out of my head and try to enjoy the full album. Focussing on one aspect is not fair.

 Vortex of the Dark Knowledge has many good moments. ‘Dipping into Sombre Quagmire’ has the aforementioned girth straddling the riffs – to be fair, the album is full of quality riffs throughout – and the intensity of the vocals is top drawer. ‘Divine Desecration’ has a tone that is pure nectar to the ears. It is luscious and deep, encouraging the air-guitars to be deployed.

Throughout the album, you are dealt a brutal bludgeoning attack. It is unrelenting, uncompromising. This would be a tough album to listen to if it lasted more than the ½ hour it does. But Cranial Osteotomy are merciful riff-lords and concentrate their assault.

It’s taken an absolute age for their 2^nd album, and it is worthy of your time.

That drum sound though, eh?

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