Ferocity and power are just a pair of what has always made death metal such a powerhouse of a sound from its very inception. We've seen thousands upon thousands of different iterations of that DNA brought to life in forms both exquisite and underwhelming. Recently, we've seen an abundance of bands new and old come around to deliver immense technicality and prowess in the sound on such a level that leaves the mind utterly bewildered that such things are still excellent to witness, but it can often feel like many of such acts are treading the same path without a lot of that wow-factor to not just catch us off-guard but crawling back for a fresh listen time and time again. Vitriol's first full-length album five years ago laid the groundwork for such magnificence, but it's here with this new opus that they've blown past any and all expectations.
Out of the gate, it demands to be noted that of all the material that 2024 has already thrown our way, I have no doubt that many will still be talking about this creation in twelve months' time. For all that they've brought to the table and dared to become in order to show off how much they've matured and mastered in such a short amount of time, Vitriol has left nothing to chance in the utterly petrifying and titanic menace that is "Suffer & Become". Where many might rely on flashy solos to show off their prowess, Vitriol's craft goes for the throat in every instance as it seeks to devour your very soul in such a way that doesn't just leave you a hollow husk waiting to leave this plane, but a slave to their dominating will. Constantly explosive to the touch and consistently overwhelming no matter what angle you may approach this behemoth from, "Suffer & Become" is always lying in wait for the perfect strike when you least expect it with such force that leaves you wonder how such power is physically possible. Diabolical in its craftsmanship and carnivorous in spirit, Vitriol has crafted an experience that many having been longing for out of what death metal is capable of. Far more than an attractive creation that's meant to draw people in and enamor them, "Suffer & Become" is simply the result of mastery through intensity the likes of which we rarely get to witness in such a form that leaves you rooted in place both in terror and fascination.
I wouldn't be shocked for many to continue considering this as a strong contender as one of best albums of the year as 2024 progresses with everything that's been put forth within "Suffer & Become" the sort of madness that does not quickly fade. While it was five years ago that Vitriol showed great promise, it is every turn here that the Portland act has become a beast not to be underestimated lest you find your spine torn asunder by its fearsome raw power.
LISTEN to "Suffer & Become" on Bandcamp here.
LIKE Vitriol on Facebook here.

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