Review by Anselm Anderson
Seattle-based Beltfed Weapon has just released Darkened Demise, their fourth EP, a couple of weeks ago. Formed in 1999 by guitarist/songwriter Frank Hetzel, the true "Veterans" of the metal scene incorporate elements of speed, thrash and death metal.
I decided to write this review after I read the backstory for this album. The album is dedicated to the memory of vocalist and project founder Tim Aymar, following his untimely death in February. Darkened Demise gave the ex-Control Denied vocalist the opportunity to experiment with his vocals alongside some experienced musicians. Tim Aymar befriended Frank Hetzel on Facebook after the latter became a fan of the band. Hetzel emailed Aymar about a project he was working on and invited Aymar to write down some tracks.
Beltfed Weapon, led by Hetzel, has released 3 EPS: Beltfed Weapon (2001), Peacekeeper (2009), and Raining Plague (2015). I recently came across the EP, Darkened Demise, which is a fantastic metal release that is sure to impress any fan of the genre. The bone-crushing rhythms and salivating solos are truly impressive, and it's clear that Hetzel recruited some highly talented musicians to create such a powerful sound. The release is described as the band's "most ambitious " album to date. Although I had never heard of Beltfed Weapon before, after listening to Darkened Demise, I am now a fan.
Darkened Demise combines several musical styles that borrow influences from bands such as Judas Priest, which is evident in this release. Mixed by Juan Urtega, the release features Steve Tucker (Morbid Angel), Jason Viebrooks (Exhorder/Grip Inc), JD DeServio (Black Label Society), Tim Aymar (Control Denied), Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy), Kragen Lum (Heathen). Bryan Newbury (Into Eternity) and Dagna Silesia (Ghost Ship Octavius).
The EP kicks off with the intense and edgy thrash metal sound of 'Accept Your Insanity'. Tim Aymar impressively mimics Rob Halford's signature octave-bursting vocals, perfectly complementing the aggressive guitar sound crafted by Hetzel.
Next up is the brutal and dark metal sounds of 'Darkened Demise', vocalist for Morbid Angel, Steve Tucker, who lends a powerful and sinister edge to his growls. He complements the shifting tempo with finger-splitting guitar solos between Kagen Lum and Jeff Loomis. Frank Hetzel is a talented and experienced songwriter, further enhanced by the addition of Loomis and Lum on guitar.
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| Photo Credit: Ylana Glickman |
Lastly, "'Head First Into Hell" showcases the timeless metal sound that merges the skull-rattling drums of Newbury with powerful, awe-inspiring vocals. My only criticism of the release is the lack of credits for each track. I struggled to identify which musician appeared on the tracks. I had to visit the Beltfed Weapon website to find out the musicians on here.
Overall, Darkened Demise is an emotional tribute to a talented lyricist and vocalist, Frank Hetzel wanted to honour by showcasing to the world a true metal album by a man, who he held dear to his heart.
Rating: 4.5/5
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Click on the videos for 'Darkened Demise', 'Eternal Fire' and 'Head First Into Hell' via the Beltfed Weapon YouTube channel below.
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