Dark Remains
Planet Earth Scourged ()
Wydane przez Burning Misery RecordsRok wydania Kraj HollandNapisał Wouter7
Holland based old school death metal recorded at A.M. Studios, Gouda (where Infinited Hate recorded its only demo and debut album) "Planet Earth Scourged" is a record that despite its flaws holds enough future promise. Dark Remains is inspired by the early pioneers as Obituary, Bolt Thrower and the likes - but adds a sort of thrash urgency to the whole not unlike early Pestilence. My biggest gripe with "Planet Earth Scourged" isn't however the enthusiasm or technical skills of those involved, but the lack of memorable, stand out material to set them apart from the competition. Dark Remains obviously possesses the chops to write some decent and engaging death metal, but there's no signature track present here. In that sense Dark Remains seem to have the same problem as country mates Vermin or Infinited Hate, for that matter. The drumming is monotonous and one-dimensional, while the guitar tone holds enough punch they lack interesting riffs to truly stand out in one way or the other. The riffing is mainly mid-paced chugging with occasional up-tempo and Benediction like punky sections. Whenever Dark Remains go into a doom section, they shine brilliantly. Leads are far and few, but whenever they show up they are worth the wait. The vocals by RSD Xul (who decamped after the recordings) are standard genre fare but interesting enough through out. Artwork and lay-out are fitting for the record and superb in execution. Additionally, there are two live tracks to be heard as well. I can't say that I'm floored by "Planet Earth Scourged" - but Dark Remains should be able to carve a little niche for themselves in the local scene.
www.darkremains.tk
