[Conjured by the spirit of a death metal loving bear, this review has come to be. What’s that smell? Is that the putrid scent of some Shitfun? Don’t worry, time reveals all.]
I’ve been eagerly awaiting Hyperdontia‘s latest offering, Harvest of Malevolence, since it was announced and couldn’t resist picking it up from the promo pile as soon as I saw it. This bear is going to get some filthy death metal. But how dirty is it really?
First off, let’s talk about the bass. I’m really impressed by the bass tone on this album. It’s full, punchy, and provides a solid backbone for the tracks. It’s one of the album’s most consistent elements, weaving its way through the songs like a skilled navigator aboard a rotten ship. The guitar work, on the other hand, feels a bit underwhelming. I didn’t expect that from the band that recorded excellent albums like Nexus of Teeth or their last EP Deranged. The solos are technically solid, but they don’t really excite. They meander in and out, ticking the box for a solo without adding much flair. The guitar sound lacks the “heft” I’ve come to expect from them, and it seems Hyperdontia have gone a bit safe.
But my main criticism for Harvest of Malevolence is the pacing. Hyperdontia take their time, moving at a mid-tempo crawl that borders on groove metal, but without the groove. The slower pace makes the songs feel longer than they are, which takes away the album’s energy. The tracks lack variety, blending into one another and making it difficult to distinguish one from the next. Harvest of Malevolence isn’t bad, though, it’s just fine. Die-hard fans might find it an enjoyable listen, but casual listeners may find it difficult to stay engaged from start to finish.
Harvest of Malevolence shows promise but falls short of expectations. The exceptional bass work and occasional flashes of brilliance can’t save it from a general sense of lethargy and repetitiveness. Hyperdontia showcase solid musicianship but struggle to keep the listener engaged throughout. While the album has its moments, it ultimately feels like a marathon without much scenery to appreciate along the way.
