VRADEMARGK – Arrelats

The Spanish death metal squadron known as Vrademargk have been lurking around in the underground ever since 2003 and unleashed some cool things in the past, but this brand-new offering of theirs titled "Arrelats" is without doubt their strongest output yet. Dark and punishing music is the order of the day here and I must say that I am impressed with how focused and determined the seven-track disc sounds.

One of the first things that struck me when listening to this pulverizing little gem was how organic everything seemed to unfold and the way in which all the different parts flowed together so seamlessly. Sharp, precise riffing coupled with a neck-breaking rhythm section and an abundance of crushing mid-tempo passages is the short answer to what this record sounds like and what lies in store for you. However, let me make it clear that you can keep playing these tunes over and over again without tiring of them and that they possess a sufficient amount of substance to warrant repeated listens. The intense and confident vocals are one of the highlights of the album too.

There is charisma and character to "Arrelats" and it lacks neither variety nor depth. They constantly change the pace and the entire affair comes across as a lively one with a solid groove to it. I can easily see this one appeal to those of you who cherish bands ala Dismember and At the Gates.