Giving your neck a good workout from the start ‘Crossroad of Fire’ kicks in and takes control. The vocals are raspy, while the music is played at break-neck speed and tenacious. ‘This is underground’ is bred within the same vein as the previous track, creating chaos, consistently roaring and doesn’t stop to gather breath! ‘Chaos upon us’ does however, start off at a more reasonable pace and certainly doesn’t sound as chaotic, although there is a lot more going on here, the change of tempo for starters and that’s when the chaos appears, when you least expect it! ‘The Underdog’ is again matched with a spectacular steadfast sprint towards the finish line, and a vocal that sounds like its retching!
‘We Choose Who Suffers’ has a superb rhythm etched into its colossal structure, make no mistake. Plus strong bass hooks and melodic twisting hues. ‘Worship the Old Ways’ scampers feverishly to an intense conclusion, making forcible turbulence and leaving a dust trail in its wake! ‘Below The Pale Sky’ this is where everything changes and a beautiful melodic tapestry comes into view. It’s a breathless wonder of uplifting music that contrasts to all the previous tracks and gives the album a slight diversity. The vocals are still raspy and in the spotlight but the emotional wrangle is simply stunning and epic in every sense of the word, proving that Conceived by Hate are capable of more than just death thrash.
‘Summoning the Graves’ goes back to their damming roots CbH nestle back into their particular blend of music and fiercely gather momentum, hitting the potency once more. ‘Death & Beyond’ – the final song and the bands title track starts off at a slow pace and suddenly changes tempo going in for the kill at the drop of a hat. Snarling vehemently and deeply gripping with great melodic rhythm.
Although the band do what they say on the jar, there are a few good surprises to be experienced on this album. It may sound similar in places but the change of tempos and swagger of rhythms coax you into a whirlwind of lively and inventive rhythms that deserve to be explored and savoured.
Without a doubt the track ‘Below the pale sky’ is an absolute masterpiece. Conceived by Hate are superb musicians and deserve recognition for that but definitely worth checking out and savouring the sultry moments among the fire and brimstone!
