The first time I heard a GOD DETHRONED song was from a compilation my old guitar teacher had made from various samplers. The song was “Ravenous” (if my memory serves me correctly) and showcased their catchy brand of Death Metal. My first reaction was that it was a cool song, although I thought that a whole album of quasi-melodic tremolo picked riffing would wear thin after a while. If this album is an indication of GOD DETHRONED general style, I should have not listened to my gut instinct many years ago and gotten this album then.

As the name would suggest, the band plays Death Metal and it doesn’t disappoint. Not as brutal as the likes of CANNIBAL CORPSE, but there were songs that will make the listener want to tear down walls. That’s one of the things that really grabbed my attention. The band doesn’t stick to one philosophy throughout the entire album. The band goes from ultra fast Thrash to slow and heavy crunching moments and this breathes a sense of dynamics throughout the album. The listener won’t feel overwhelmed when listening to this, as the mood changes as the album goes along. Plus, the added melodies and the inclusion of distinct choruses just makes this album even more memorable. No two songs sound alike on this, which is a huge plus. In of itself, the album is great.

There is one factor that will prevent me from grading this any higher. The band is talented and good at what they do. However, they sound way too many other bands that cannot stand out and this hurts them A LOT. I’ve heard stuff like this before and nothing on this CD will make me go for it specifically over other things in my collection.

Mildly recommended. (Online March 27, 2005)