vote
7.5
Tombstoner’s new album, entitled “Rot Stink Rip”, takes a decisive position in the path undertaken with their previous work, “Victims Of Vile Torture”, released in 2021.
Published thanks to Redifining Darkness Records, this new chapter offers eleven tracks of pure death metal, which stands out for its catchiness and its sonic power, thanks also to an excellent production job. Right from the start, a clear old school inspiration emerges, enriched by groove metal influences more typical of the 90s.
This fusion manifests itself through an intense alternation of driven sections and groove changes, which bring to mind Machine Head, especially thanks to the presence of a midrange voice which gives a distinctive touch to Tombstoner’s sound; the second voice, in true Corpsegrinder style, is instead a gift to the listener, who really can’t ask for anything better, and probably stands out so well thanks to the cyclical alternation in the screaming style.
“Rot Stink Rip” is characterized by a refined and modern production, and creates structured and organic songs, where the Staten Island band fully expresses its technical ability: the evidence behind the skins is convincing and very solid, plus the six strings, the solos tastefully enrich each piece with touches of creativity and virtuosity without ever exaggerating.
Among the highlights of the album, songs such as “Sealed In Blood” and “Fuckin’ Nasty” stand out, characterized by constant grooves and pounding chuggy riffs, always in a more modern metal key: “Desperate Dreams”, for example, offers some a cue that recalls the current Baest; beyond that, “Metamorphosis” takes us into more old-school territories, recalling the sounds of Morbid Angel with a personal touch.
If we want to be really meticulous at all costs, the title track and “Vials” present breakdowns that could be a little too phoned in, resulting in them being among the album’s weak points, and could have been developed hastily, even if , carry their own power of effectiveness and do not appear out of context. With each motion, the variety and quality of the compositions remain remarkable, with moments that range from the most extreme aggression to the most refined melody: in conclusion, “Rot Stink Rip” is an album that fully deserves the attention of fans of the genre, thanks to its combination of brutality, groove and technique.
Tombstoner prove to be a group not to be underestimated and to keep an eye on within the extreme metal scene. Let’s see what the live venue will be able to do.
