Crypts of Despair – All Light Swallowed (Abyssal Death Metal)

 

This is…just good. I don’t know how else to say it. It’s good. Actually very good, so I can add at least that word to the review here to be more verbose. I can probably manage more than that, we’ll see. First off, congratulations to Crypts of Despair, because this is the first Lithuanian band Deaf Sparrow has ever reviewed, even before it shifted hands to me back in 2013. Truly, history in the making. I even had to add a country tag for it in the system, damn. Next thing, cover by Néstor Ávalos, just sick. I want to rot away and be pulled into the earth now. But back to the music. Just very good.

   

All Light Swallowed is the type of release that can create a metal fan out of anyone. Crypts of Despair nail the riffs; they’re dark, brooding, yet not such a darkened mess you can’t hear a lick of a note. The vocals dip low into the pits with a horrid echo that sounds surprisingly natural, not covered in effects, but also tear into anguished shouts, moans, all the great stuff that makes for the best type of occult sound from some forgotten abyss. With the production as high as it is, and with special features available through the label such as a flag, hoodies, and limited vinyl presses, it’s practically a required gateway into a world of music more people should experience. Some of the best writing I’ve heard in awhile for this genre, and the echoing roars make you feel like such a fucking beast for listening to it.

 

Crypts of Despair Official Facebook

Written by Stanley, Devourer of Souls

Crypts of Despair – All Light Swallowed
Transcending Obscurity Records

Cover Art: Néstor Avalos
4.8 / 5