Splattered is a relatively unknown band to me - I saw the "death metal" tag given in my promo, and I knew I had to do it. With already two full-length albums and an EP in their discography, California based Splattered are back with yet another EP "Repugnant Virtuosity" and here I am, discussing it!
The opening track "What Lurks among the Shadows" showcases a mix of thrash and sludgy riffs. The layerings on the song consisting of guitar leads and solos with instances of dive bomb and pinched harmonics to catch the attention of the listener. Though an instrumental track, it sets up the style prevalent throughout the album itself. "The Atrophy of Omniscience" provides a take on speed-thrash metal. The vocals, specially the lows reminds of the style prevalent in the 90s era of early death metal while the lows kind of sounds in style of Trevor Strnad of The Black Dalhia Murder and Stevie Boiser of Inferi. This track perfectly builds up through its running minutes building up for a pompous ending - with guitar showcasing brutality and drums blasting in the end.
The title track "Repugnant Virtuosity" takes a groovier approach with double bass on drums. The riffs are simple, yet heavy enough to melt your face. Many instances of dynamic shifts can be heard, as the song almost switches to a technical songwriting at the end, providing a climactic ending. The closure track features a Black Dalhia Murder cover of "Warborn" taken from their notable album "Nightbringer". The cover stays true to the sound and style of the original (just being downtuned and guitars having a dirtier tone) - and honestly, the cover slays!
The overall sound of the EP is reminiscent of the old school death metal sound - the guitars having a dirty muddy tone with riffs from 90s era death-thrash metal. The drums and bass do much of the heavy lifting to provide the necessary heaviness and grooviness. The second-half of the EP features a modern take with riff writing and interesting dynamic shifts, making it more interesting. With a runtime of almost sixteen minutes, Splattered wastes no time in showcasing the brutality they possess, while also providing homage to their influences.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
Website: https://www.facebook.com/splatteredofficial
Genre: Death Metal
Worldwide Release: February 4th, 2022.
