Sunday 11 May 2008

Atheist - Unquestionable Presence (1991)


These U.S. death metallers baffle and perplex once again, '...Presence' somehow manages to blend an almost funky style of thrash, with bewildering complexities and dryness that we've come to know and love from the brilliant Cynic and Sadus. Although only eight tracks on offer you'll find it more than enough as you attempt to chew on the awkward bass-lines, the twiddling guitars and technical rhythms that will no doubt have you coming back for more despite leaving you weary and at times lost in the maze of complex riffery and far-reaching drums. It's truly amazing that bands such as this had such a following, but thankfully there were people out there able to appreciate this kind of hypnotic metal, because the fusion of instruments will render the listener speechless as time and time again they put you under the spell of their dabbling.

Atheist can only be admired, it's difficult to review such dazzling progressive music, but for some this will be an alienating experience, but if you're a fan of classy death metal then Atheist will not disappoint, just don't expect a middle of the road slab of gore metal, this is metal for those with brains.

8/10

No comments: