Staring into the face of this ever-changing, technology saturated world, many are likely sinking further within its ironic loneliness. Fortunately, in an effort to escape the impending isolation, music lovers can find comfort in their favorite artists. A great practice in self-medication, for those who love Death Metal, Vader might be a top choice.
Established in 1983, and originating in Poland, Vader are arguably the kings of brutal Death Metal. Starting out as a Thrash/Speed Metal band, they later settled into an intense, pleasurable brutal Death Metal style which has served as an inspiration to many other on the scene. Now, after completely what was one of the final Heavy Metal touring cycles prior to the COVID-19 forced shutdown, Vader are back with their latest studio album, Solitude In Madness.
Set for release on Friday, May 1st, 2020 through Nuclear Blast Records, it is the album fans have been waiting for since the Thy Messenger EP released last May. A force to be reckoned with, the current lineup of Vader – founding Lead Guitarist/Vocalist Piotr Wiwczarek, Guitarist Marek “Spider” Pająk, Bassist Tomasz “Hal” Halicki, along with Drummer James Stewart – certainly do not shy away from the daunting task of living up to their past efforts with Solitude In Madness. In fact, none of the eleven tracks even reach over three and a half minutes long, but even still, they do not miss a beat in the process.
Starting off with ” Shock And Awe,” you are sucked right in and come face to face with Vader’s wall of sound. A teaser of sorts, “Into Oblivion” then elevates your heart rate into the madness of turbo-speed beats. This is followed by the temporary battle within “Despair, the shortest track on the album at just over one minute long. Interestingly enough, it somehow seems longer than it is because there is just so much to process during the demon speed pace. If that were not enough, you will be then treated to some of the best solo guitar work on the album inside the masterful “Incineration Of The Gods.” Are you tired yet? Let’s hope not.
Off to the races again yet again, Vader attack with “And Satan Wept” before “Emptiness” drops a full package of Metal to the chopping block. However, just when the fun reaches full impact mode, another wild force arrives with the witty “Dancing In The Slaughterhouse” before concluding in comical, sinister laughter. Then you are treated to the brief, yet evil “Stigma Of Divinity,” but do not tap out yet… because it all comes crashing down with “Bones,” an exemplary eargasm finale.
Vader has always showed how tactful they can be crafting new music. Overall, Solitude In Madness provides a short and sinister account why Vader is so revered inside the international Death Metal community. Serving as a metaphor for the current hell some, if not all, the world currently finds itself engulfed in, Solitude In Madness is a must listen. That is why Cryptic Rock gives it 5 out of 5 stars.
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