Review Summary: A very promising debut from Scottish extreme metal quintet.
Following 2 successful demos, Bleed From Within released their debut album
Humanity in the summer of 2009 via Rising Records. A record that shows the burgeoning potential the Glaswegians possess. In saying that, the quintet has not accomplished anything truly groundbreaking. Instead, they have fashioned an album that fits in neatly with the rest of today’s modern deathcore scene. Crafted in completely their style and never letting up on the brutality, if nothing else, from start to finish. While it may not be too overwhelming, it is nonetheless an exciting start for the Scots.
Kicking things off on this album is “The Awakening”. Clocking in at just over 2 minutes, we are bombarded with disastrous news broadcasts. This feeds into an eerie, ominous guitar melody which is quickly transcended by something in no short supply here, breakdowns. From this moment the album takes a step up in intensity, pounding its way through a mere 35 minutes of sheer belligerence. Pummeling breakdowns and savage riffs which are at times quite impressive, elements that are sure to send heads banging in a live setting. Second track “Damnation” does well to cement the band’s sound, sum up their attitude and overall exhibits what they have to offer. A chaotic riff which is complimented by some impressive drumming works well here. One of the album’s most impressive breakdowns is also on exhibition.
Vocalist Scott Kennedy delivers an assured performance despite the lack of anything particularly inventive about his personal talents. Both high and low notes alike are delivered confidently and with aggression. High end shrieks and guttural growls on “The Fall of Man” combine well with the riffs hurled at us. For some reason, however, I can’t help but feel there is something left in the tank, that he is not committing 100% to the performance. Something that in my opinion needs maturing if this band is to set themselves apart from the rest of the deathcore flock. Guitarists Dave Lennon and Craig Gowans intertwining is one of the highlights of this album. Their riffs are the core that keeps this album roaring right the way through. The potential for creating high-quality, memorable riffs is clear, though on this effort they do little to separate themselves from the infinitely swelling reservoir of less than memorable melodic thrashing. Their talents are best displayed on tracks such as the infectious “A Killer Is Born” and furious album closer “The Absence”. The many many breakdowns featured are really the only point where Davie Provian’s bass is truly present. The sound is all too often drowned out by the guitar tone, which could be a hassle if you’re looking for chunky gargantuan riffs.
Humanity offers little in the way of originality and utilizes nothing that hasn’t been done before. However, this is still a very solid, very enjoyable debut from an up and coming young act. A record well worth half an hour of your time and one that should please existing fans of the genre. If deathcore is not your thing you may find this somewhat inaccessible. One thing that must be called into question is the band’s progression from here. With a fresh release date fast approaching, one must wonder how Bleed From Within can mature and develop their sound. It may be an uphill task, although, with the right mind set and approach, not an impossible one. Watch this space.
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