Year: 2024
Label: Century Media
Total Time: 43:39
The year 2024 has already left, and one of the releases that made a significant impact on the Metal world is “Absolute Elsewhere” by the Americans BLOOD INCANTATION. A Death Metal band that was formed in 2011 and shocked the underground Metal scene with the release of its amazing debut album “Starspawn” in 2016. Meanwhile, their second full-length “Hidden History Of The Human Race” in 2019 proved that BLOOD INCANTATION is not just another Death Metal band, but a group of musicians characterized by vision and evolution. Of course, those who are already familiar with the band, know that its members are expressing also their musical interests through other projects. Three of those members are part of the impressive Death/Doom Metallers SPECTRAL VOICE, while the drummer is a member of WAYFARER. We need to mention that “Absolute Elsewhere” marks the third full-length release by the Americans, while their discography is including also two EPs and a split with SPECTRAL VOICE.
A year before the release of this album, BLOOD INCANTATION released the “Timewave Zero” EP, whose musical direction did not prepare us for what was about to follow, as it had nothing to do with Death Metal music. Instead, it ventured into ambient paths. Thankfully, this direction did not continue in the album, as Death Metal forms remains the main musical core of “Absolute Elsewhere”. A core that is primarily being influenced by MORBID ANGEL and IMMOLATION, while DEATH, CYNIC, and ATHEIST are also adding their elements. At the same time, alongside these Death Metal giants, we must also include PINK FLOYD, ELOY, TANGERINE DREAM, and YES, as “Absolute Elsewhere” is enriched with strong influences from the progressive rock of the 1970s.
The album consists of two long and chaotic compositions that significantly deviate from the traditional elements of Brutal Death Metal. The songs are characterized by complex tempo changes, psychedelic atmosphere and soundscapes that balance between Death Metal, Progressive rock, and Krautrock. Thus, we encounter an album that focuses more on a cosmic atmosphere and storytelling rather than speed and intensity. The songs revolve around slow, almost introspective rhythms, while the ambient passages create the sense of a cinematic soundtrack for a journey to alien worlds.
The album’s themes revolve around metaphysics, space exploration, and existence in dimensions beyond perception. BLOOD INCANTATION continue to delve into subjects that combine science and philosophy, creating a mental journey that perfectly complements their music. While “Absolute Elsewhere” impresses with its originality and creativity, it may alienate some listeners who seek the intensity and immediacy that characterized the Americans’ previous albums. Nevertheless, it is a bold move that confirms their artistic maturity and their intention to push the boundaries of their musical identity.
“Absolute Elsewhere” is not just an album, it’s an experience. It is a contemplative, musical meditation that invites you to explore it again and again. If you are a fan of the band or a fan of experimental music in general, this is an album worth listening to, allowing it to transport you to another world. The album represents an exceptionally ambitious and experimental step for BLOOD INCANTATION, who maintain their Death Metal elements while simultaneously treading progressive paths, creating a captivating experience for the listener.
Rating: 9/10
Editor: Nikos Manousis
Related Link: BLOOD INCANTATION – Facebook Page
