As a lifelong fan of metal music, I was excited to stumble upon the album “Diabolus Ex Machina” by Fleshworks, a band with a definitive death metal sound. The abandon with which the band embraces this genre is evident and it’s a joy to see the old-school spirit being revitalized in such a potent manner.
From the intro track “Factory Mantra,” the tone is set for the audacious musical journey that lies ahead. The song “Down Deeper Underground” is an exhibition of guttural, aggressive vocals and deep, thunderous guitar riffs that fill your ears with an unruly aggression that is profoundly satisfying.
I was thoroughly impressed by the track “Storm of Ash”. The lyrics seemed to narrate a haunting story that paired perfectly with the somber instrumentals. “The Misery” balances guttural, chaotic elements with precise rhythm and structure, demonstrating the band’s deftness at blending different elements to create dynamic and engaging tracks.
Fans that appreciate the innovative side of the genre will find value in “Behavioural Sink” which delivers punchy drums, fierce guitars and in-depth lyrics that challenge the listener to engage deeper. With “In Waves”, the band delivers a sonic onslaught that strikes the perfect chord between chaos and order.
The title track “Diabolus Ex Machina” is a standout effort, showcasing the band’s ability to seamlessly weave multiple musical threads into a cohesive and exhilarating whole. The track “Hydraulic” offers a slightly different flavor, with a pulsating rhythm that moves the listener almost hypnotically.
The band’s work until “Thy Kingdom Fall” is hard-hitting, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in the near-spiritual experience that only a seasoned metal band can offer. “Cognitive Dissonance” and “Subdue and Dominate” continue this trend, offering complexly layered tracks that feature elements of both death and thrash metal.
In conclusion, “Diabolus Ex Machina” by Fleshworks is an absolute must-have for any metal fan. The album is a testament to the band’s commitment to staying true to their death metal roots, while also daring to venture out and explore new sonic territories. It presents an innovative approach to the genre and serves as a reminder of why we love metal music: it’s loud, it’s bold, and it’s unapologetically itself.
