Eartheria has continuously pushed the boundaries of modern death metal, and their latest album, Accursed In Sleep, marks another significant step forward. Emerging from the vibrant metal scene of Pori, Finland, this release comes six long years after their last full project, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what the band has honed during this period of intense refinement. As their third release, the anticipation surrounding Accursed In Sleep is palpable, and with good reason.
From the opening track “Glass Coffin,” the album sets an ominous yet enticing tone, reminiscent of Rotting Christ’stheatrical grandeur yet distinctly rooted in Eartheria’s unique sonic landscape. The guitar work of Juha-Pekka Leinoand Lauri Unkila is nothing short of masterful, blending technical proficiency with a heavy, melodic core that is both aggressive and pleasingly intricate. The symphonic layer in their compositions adds to the cinematic experience that each track delivers, effortlessly reflecting the progressive storytelling at the heart of this album.
The thematic journey of Accursed In Sleep, exploring the macabre visions and premonitions surrounding death, is meticulously woven into the fabric of each song. The title track, “Premonitions,” spans an epic seven minutes, shifting mood deftly in what feels like a two-part saga. The interplay of Topi Unkila’s dense bass lines and the atmospheric riffs creates a haunting soundscape that lingers long after the final note. It’s a rollercoaster of visceral intensity, capturing the somber essence of impending tragedy with a tangible authenticity.
Beyond these technical feats, the vocal delivery on the album sets it apart. Juha-Pekka Leino’s growls have a gritty texture that fits seamlessly with Eartheria’s genre-blending style. Unlike the high-pitched screams often littered throughout black metal, these vocals maintain a consistent tone, adding depth to the album’s narrative. This approach provides accessibility without compromising the brutality expected in extreme metal, broadening the album’s appeal.
“Never To Return,” one of the pre-released singles, exemplifies this balance of brutality and melody. It’s a crushingly intense track, yet punctuated by moments of ethereal calm, embodying Eartheria’s ability to craft songs that are both beautifully chaotic and rhythmically soothing. The ambiance created is enveloping, drawing listeners into a world meticulously illustrated by Jon Pedley’s stunning artwork.
Drumming, often the backbone of metal, receives its due attention. The percussion work on Accursed In Sleep is relentless and precise. From double bass pedal eruptions to measured cymbal crashes, the drums heighten the aggressive energy that runs throughout the album. Each beat serves the dual purpose of showcasing technical skill while propelling the narrative forward, maintaining the listener’s adrenaline-fueled engagement.
A standout track, “Halls of Gold pt 2,” dazzles with its unpredictable solos and devastating breakdowns. This composition showcases the band’s proclivity for blending complexity with addictive rhythms, making it a memorable centerpiece. The dynamic range displayed here is impressive, with Eartheria deftly weaving atmospheric layers into a heavy instrumental core.
The album closes with “Arrival,” an eight-minute epic that encapsulates the journey undertaken by the listener. This finale revisits themes explored throughout the album with renewed intensity, offering closure yet compelling curiosity about the band’s next creative ventures. It ends on a remarkably strong note, cementing the album as an exploration of new realms in modern death metal.
In the grand tapestry of Eartheria’s work, Accursed In Sleep stands out as a testament to their growth and innovation. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in every riff, vocal strain, and lyric. This album is a dynamic exploration that should capture heavy metal enthusiasts across the spectrum. The creativity and technical prowess demonstrated make it a formidable entry in Eartheria’s discography.
Final Rating: 9.5/10
Throughout Accursed In Sleep, tracks like “Glass Coffin,” “Premonitions,” and “Halls of Gold pt 2” emerge as clear favorites, offering something uniquely compelling with each listen. Eartheria’s blend of the symphonic, melodic, and brute force within their music continues to push them to the forefront of the metal genre, promising a future that is just as compelling as this album.
Tracklist
Never To Return
Premonitions
Glass Coffin
Arrival
Halls Of Gold Pt. 2
The Belly Of A Giant
Halls Of Gold Pt. 1
Closure
RELEASES:
Throes Of Time (2015)
Awaken The Sun (2018)
Accursed In Sleep (2024)
SOCIAL MEDIAS & LINKS:
https://hyperfollow.com/eartheriaband
www.facebook.com/eartheriaband/
www.instagram.com/eartheriaband/
