Alongside NECROS CHRISTOS and DROWNED, EXCORIATE deliver one of the best old-school death metal terror releases in recent years, a must-hear for fans of Pestilence, Asphyx, Death, and Autopsy. On Pestilent Winds is a relentless display of old-school death metal, capturing the raw intensity and spirit of the genre’s pioneers. From the moment the opening riff of "Voice of Damnation" crashes down, the listener is plunged into a whirlwind of fury and controlled chaos. The album thrives on its ability to evoke an atmosphere steeped in morbid dread, enhanced by razor-sharp guitar tones that flirt with the Swedish style without ever losing their edge.
The production here plays a vital role in shaping the experience. The drums carry a resonant, booming quality, particularly the thumping bass drum and echoing snare, while the guitars maintain a distorted yet precise clarity that lets every riff land with deadly impact. The cavernous vocals only add to the haunting presence, channeling a Martin van Drunen-like growl that meshes perfectly with the music’s relentless assault.
A standout moment comes with ". . . From Morbid Ruins," where Excoriate momentarily slows the pace, creating an eerie, epic atmosphere before diving back into their fiery, unrelenting style. This shift highlights the band's thoughtful songwriting, where moments of reflection balance the intense riffing and blast beats, ensuring the album remains dynamic without overstaying its welcome.
Excoriate also pays homage to their influences with a crushing cover of Sepultura's "Mayhem," seamlessly blending the track’s raw aggression into the album’s own brutal landscape. It’s a testament to their ability to channel the early days of death metal while crafting something distinctly their own.
Despite the band's brief existence, On Pestilent Winds stands as a testament to their deep understanding of what makes death metal resonate. Rooted firmly in tradition, the album avoids unnecessary frills, instead delivering riff after riff of pure, visceral energy. This is a record that will undoubtedly linger in the collections of old-school death metal fans for years to come.
