Classic and cult British death metal album, originally released by Nuclear Blast in 1993.
Benediction's "Transcend The Rubicon" stands as a testament to the often-overlooked UK death metal scene of the early 90s. While bands from Florida, New York, and Sweden tend to dominate the narrative of that era, Benediction, alongside Cancer and a few others, delivered albums that rival the best of the time.
"Transcend The Rubicon" holds a special place in Benediction's discography. The album's cover art, crafted by Dan Seagrave, is as intricate and captivating as the music within. Musically, the album captures the essence of early death and thrash metal, reminiscent of the raw energy found on albums like "Scream Bloody Gore" and "Schizophrenia". The production is crisp and clear, avoiding the muddy sound of some of their contemporaries.
Tracks like "Unfound Mortality" and "Paradox Alley" showcase Benediction's thrashy, riff-heavy style, drawing comparisons to early Death. Vocalist Dave Ingram's deep growls add a sinister edge to the music, while the guitar solos are straightforward and effective.
What sets Benediction apart is their ability to vary their sound. Songs like "Nightfear" and "Face Without Soul" introduce mid-tempo grooves, reminiscent of early 90s death n' roll, without overindulging in the style. "Painted Skulls" takes this further, adding a touch of Metallica-esque riffing while maintaining a sense of urgency.
"Transcend The Rubicon" may not appeal to fans of modern brutal or technical death metal, but for those who appreciate the old-school sound, it's a gem. It's an album that harkens back to the roots of death metal, offering a blend of consistency and contrast that is often missing in today's scene. Benediction's contribution to the genre deserves recognition, and this album is a testament to their legacy.
