Deathfiend
Dark Rising
"Prepare for a relentless assault as Deathfiend unleashes their second album, Dark Rising. This ferocious release, available on Digipack CD through Gruesome Records from Portugal, also comes in a limited hand-numbered cassette edition, self-released by the band, and will later drop on vinyl via Phobia Records in Czech Republic in 2024. Following their 2022 debut Beyond Life, this album marks a significant evolution in the band's sound, blending the raw intensity of old school Death Metal with elements of Crust, Doom, and a touch of Black Metal. Across its nine punishing tracks, Dark Rising captures the primitive essence of genre-defining bands like Hellhammer, Unleashed, and Slaughter, while weaving in doom-laden atmospheres and spacey, psychedelic guitar work. The recording is heavy and dark, perfectly capturing the crushing weight of the band's music. A standout feature of the album is the guest appearance by Mark ""Barney"" Greenway from Napalm Death, whose brutal vocals on one track elevate the album to new heights. Dark Rising is a definitive statement from Deathfiend, showcasing their growth while remaining true to the underground ethos. This release is essential for fans of uncompromising old school Death Metal, delivering a sound that is both familiar and devastatingly fresh."