Horror buffs, conspiracy theorists, creeps, and metal-heads: meet your new favorite band. Tales of the Tomb is a Canadian combination of fierce death metal and lyrical themes that would put a chill down the spine of even the most disturbed listeners. With a sound that rivals acts like Cannibal Corpse and Carnifex, these tracks are filled with guttural vocals, blast beats, tight chugging guitars, and an unrelenting aggression that no doubt translates into a crushing live show.
For fans of the macabre, Tales of the Tomb is a lethal dose of darkness. What this album lacks in diversity of sound it makes up for in sheer violence. This album isn’t for the faint of heart, and maybe you knew that as soon as you read their band name. Their sound is something Edgar Allen Poe would have nightmares about, and if you have a fascination with death, serial killers, and gore, then this album will be your favorite fall release just in time for Halloween.
Some of the most impressive aspects of these tracks are the clarity and power of the guitar tone, and the growling grit of devilish vocals. Tough they don’t stray too far from the beaten path, they do the genre well. Their thrashy riffs and pummeling chugs are technically proficient to say the least, and “Nine Eleven” has a guitar solo that will get you circle head-banging in no time. I would have loved to hear more solos throughout the album, but they’re placed in tasteful sections and they don’t overdo it. One thing this album lacks is a variety of vocal styles, and if mid or high screams were added it would take the tracks to another level. That being said, the low growls are a staple of the genre and are enough to strike fear into the heart of any listener.
Volume Two: Mendacium is six songs of punishing metal fit for listeners with the heaviest of taste. Whether you’re spending time carving pumpkins or watching slasher movies this Halloween season, be sure to make room on your playlist for Tales of the Tomb.
Rating: 7.0/10
