Do you believe in destiny? Yes, I do not believe as well. But still…
The other day, while I listening to a series of new albums, I was thinking that so far in 2021 (almost) there is nothing interesting for me. And suddenly – I played Tortured Demon – In Desperation’s Grip. I liked it from the first time and I noted it down.
Exactly the next morning we received an e-mail with a proposal for a review of the album. So far so good, but what I saw was that the band from England is young. This is their debut album, after several demos, singles and EP, and they have been playing for a little over 2 years. Come on – its’ three members are teenagers, now 14-15-16 years old! Yes, I immediately thought of DEATH ANGEL! Their vocalist Mark Osegueda was celebrating his birthday on that day. As the saying goes, all the signs indicated that no matter how rarely I write, this specific review will be mine.

You play the record, then after a few seconds of preparation, the weight of the first song hits you. It makes it clear to you what to expect from the young guys. Uncompromising thrash riffs, groove mood, core cuts, pure vocal inclusions and choral melodies diversify the rough vocals up to death vocals. The music itself is quite diverse, alternating fast and more moderate moments. As you shake your head while headbanging, the energy suddenly strikes you and makes you jump into the mosh pit (or against the wall, considering the isolation). The sound itself is very good, the instruments stand out clearly. The songs are full of ideas and melody, which is surprising, considering the fragile age of the boys. There is a great variety in their music, from the epic „The Invasion“ through the galloping „Cut the Budget … Cut Your Throat“, to the dooms „My Terror“. It is indicative for me that I cannot say who they look like, meaning they do not copy anyone and structure their own style.

Let me summarize, so that there are no surprises. Great album with modern extreme metal (from thrash-core-death-groove). Not for straight-line thrashers or death metal fans. It is not also for fans of 80s’ sound and style. For everyone with an open mind – enjoy it!

9/10

Tortured Demon are:
Jacob Parkinson – Lead Vocals / Guitar (15)
Freddie Meaden – Clean Vocals / Bass (14)
Joe Parkinson – Drums (16)

„In Desperations Grip“ was released on 5th of February 2021 by the Japanese label „Spiritual Beast Records„

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