Chicago thrashers Bloodletter issue a potent dose of gothic thrash on its fourth effort, Leave The Light Behind. The album title and cover have a black metal aesthetic, but Light draws from several sub-genres: thrash, black metal, death metal, goth, and hardcore. “A World Unmade” showcases this metal fusion with its constant rhythm changes, melodic riffs and haunting atmosphere. Fans of Warbringer and Vulture will appreciate the harmonic guitars and baroque riffing.
“On Blackened Wings” commences with a sharp wail and pummeling double bass drums that settles into a mid-tempo. This is a whirlwind track that speeds up, slows down, but never goes off the rails. “Eternal Winter” is one of the album’s faster tracks. It does not sacrifice musical complexity for speed though, but it rages like a hellish horse racing through a winter storm. “Terminal” opens with an eerie guitar harmony and slick groove. There is an impending sense of doom on this track, like one is trapped in a haunted house. Things pick up during the midsection, with blast beats for added measure.
“Unearthing Darkness” is another fast track clocking in at three minutes. This track will induce headbanging with its Gothenburg style riffing and manic drumming. Guitarists Peter Carparelli and Pat Armementos throw out some virtuoso leads that complement the track. “Hunting Horror” opens with a somber guitar melody before the tempo quickly picks up. Once again the overall composition is well thought out and has a gothic overtone due to the guitar work. “The Black Death” recalls early Avenged Sevenfold, with its skate punk riffs and speed, but is accentuated by blast beats and tremolo riffing. “Night Terrors” concludes the album in fitting form as Peter shrieks about his fear of falling asleep. “My body thrashing/fighting for my life/wishing I would wake from this hell!” The guitar solos rip like the 1980s and the double bass drumming drive the song forward like a freight train.
Leave The Light Behind is a cohesive record, as the tracks flow well. The grandiose riffs, dark subject matter, and technical musicianship make for a fun, exciting listen and Bloodletter never outstay its welcome. No song on Light reaches the four-and-a-half minute mark, thus the longs do not meander, and keep the listener wanting more. The production is clear and sharp, which is necessary due to the complex guitar work that is abound on Light.
Bloodletter did a fine job on Leave The Light Behind. This is not a generic thrash record at all, as the band draws from multiple influences. Thus, if you like extreme metal, you will enjoy this album. I will gladly leave the light behind if this record awaits in the darkness.
Check out the band’s page here for news and tour dates: https://www.facebook.com/bloodlettermetal
