CoC : Forced to Decay - Perkussive Perlokution : Review

Forced to Decay - _Perkussive Perlokution_
(System Shock/Pavement, 1998)
by: Paul Schwarz (7 out of 10)

This is strange stuff. Though I hear hints of the hardcore-apocalypse style of Bloodlet and elements of Neurosis, especially with the chosen acoustic style, Forced to Decay can, to some extent, be termed "death metal". They owe nothing to the Floridian take on the style, being totally devoid of bass heavy production or relentless kick-drumming, but do hark back to those of a more death/grind persuasion. Vocals alternate between very harsh screaming and quite melodic singing of sorts. When you listen carefully and "explore" _Perkussive Perlokution_, it is pretty interesting. The use of dynamics is commendable, though not unique, and the overall feel the album emanates is one of discomfort, which seems likely to have been one of the aims. Ultimately, my problem is that it doesn't strike the right balance with me. If the band achieved what they were trying to, then I have insufficient interest in their chosen style of music. Forced to Decay seem to have put quite a bit of effort into this with some success, and that is always commendable.

(article published 13/2/1999)