Declamatory
Human Remains
Independent Release
2012
I guess there’s a specific time for all things in life. This is what came to my mind as I was listening to Declamatory’s debut. They have been in the scene since 2000, they have been through some line-up changes, they have won several contests in their country (Germany) & have also released some demos. It took them 12 years to see their debut release out. Well, better late than ever huh?
Were I to describe the band’s style I would call it heavy metal with thrash dynamics and melodic passages. I know it’s kinda confusing but it would not be suitable to call them just a thrash metal band. They are influenced by Metallica, Megadeth, Testament, Kreator, In Flames and so on… but they have managed to filter all those influences with their personal features. Sometimes more straightforward with heavy guitar riffs, others more melodic & mid-tempo and hardly any a bit mellow with acoustic guitars… a wonderful amalgamation that works very well. I’ve been listening to this album for more than a few days now and still I’m amazed by the musical quality, the ideas and the heavy, powerful & contemporary production.
The second thing that sparked my curiosity was the fact that no label has grabbed them so far. What the hell?! I’ve listening to numerous of mediocre bands that are under a label and then there are a few bands such as this that they come off independently. Well, maybe it’s better this way for various reasons.
Anyhow, I would prefer them to include a couple of songs (probably as bonus tracks), for only 8 songs and less than 35 minutes play is too short for my liking. On the other hand, if they had songs not as good as the ones that were included in the album, then they have done wisely. The opening track is a pure killer, with a strong chorus and some great riffing. Hence, what’s going to be with these guys in the future? They’re surely one of those bands that you should keep your eyes on. The first attempt is successful.
Were I to describe the band’s style I would call it heavy metal with thrash dynamics and melodic passages. I know it’s kinda confusing but it would not be suitable to call them just a thrash metal band. They are influenced by Metallica, Megadeth, Testament, Kreator, In Flames and so on… but they have managed to filter all those influences with their personal features. Sometimes more straightforward with heavy guitar riffs, others more melodic & mid-tempo and hardly any a bit mellow with acoustic guitars… a wonderful amalgamation that works very well. I’ve been listening to this album for more than a few days now and still I’m amazed by the musical quality, the ideas and the heavy, powerful & contemporary production.
The second thing that sparked my curiosity was the fact that no label has grabbed them so far. What the hell?! I’ve listening to numerous of mediocre bands that are under a label and then there are a few bands such as this that they come off independently. Well, maybe it’s better this way for various reasons.
Anyhow, I would prefer them to include a couple of songs (probably as bonus tracks), for only 8 songs and less than 35 minutes play is too short for my liking. On the other hand, if they had songs not as good as the ones that were included in the album, then they have done wisely. The opening track is a pure killer, with a strong chorus and some great riffing. Hence, what’s going to be with these guys in the future? They’re surely one of those bands that you should keep your eyes on. The first attempt is successful.