CoC : Scent of Death - Woven in the Book of Hate : Review

Scent of Death - _Woven in the Book of Hate_
(Bloody Productions, 2005)
by: Quentin Kalis (8 out of 10)

This is the debut full-length by the Iberian quintet, performing a pummelling brand of death metal. Such brand can hardly be considered original -- the vocalist is clearly influenced by Ross Dolan (Immolation), while the guitarist would no doubt list Trey Azagthoth (Morbid Angel) as one of his primary influences. But the compositions are well-arranged, there are interesting time changes, and the band are sufficiently technical to attract the attention of even the most jaded death metal fan. Growls are suitably brutal, yet contain sufficient clarity to render a lyric sheet nearly superfluous -- and speaking of lyrics, a clear anti-Christian edge is noticeable. The production is acceptable, although somewhat raw around the edges, and once again the snare drum is way too prominent and hollow sounding.

Interestingly, the cover folds out to reveal itself to be merely the upper right hand part of a much bigger picture; nonetheless, the cover art remains stale and somewhat generic, with the cover itself being much busier than the rest of the image.

_Woven in the Book of Hate_ is a debut with sufficient brutality and technicality. Next time, with better production, a tighter sound and greater technicality that comes with increased experience, who knows what impact their sophomore will have?

Contact: http://www.bloodyprod.cjb.net

(article published 9/1/2007)