If you’re familiar in any way with the heavier side of metal in the Pittsburgh area, the members of Corpse God may look familiar. It’s comprised of some OG members of the scene who are already known for their talents in Leprosy and Horrid Ordeal. In this collaboration you’ll find them doing something new and old, bringing a Lovecraftian horror story to life with the trademark sounds of the 80’s and 90’s Death Metal. Fans of Asphx, Death, Morgoth and the like, I think you’ve found your next band to embrace!
Having followed their original bands, I was ready for the dark, slightly chaotic sounds of my dark metal fix. What I wasn’t quite prepared for was to be thrown into a full on mental and emotional journey the way this hit me. First listen, I was all about the production, technique and difference in sound from these individuals I have heard so many times before. That second listen though… I sat back, closed my eyes and allowed my mind to wander as the music took me on a journey to the brink of chaos. Having seen their recent live video podcast with Bill Domiano of Build the Scene, I was pleased to learn that my imagination had not deceived me. The images brought forth were of fire, chaos, a world at its end, engulfed by the sheer power and destruction of an Elder God who would hold no mercy if his reign begins.
Lyrically, Corpse God himself became the storyteller and lead guitar of horror filled imagination. Having known his band Leprosy for some time, I admit that I’d never heard his vocals in a lead vocalist position before. Make no mistake dear reader, his deep bass sound and dark growls were perfect for this project. Guitarist Zac Nestor joins the fray with a sound that winds through the music. At times they are enmeshed, at other points dueling, but at every point supporting the grandiose sound of destruction and power.
While the first track of this release sets a mythical scene, the second track wastes no time in plunging the listener directly into the depths of the tale. Much like a roller coaster ride, that slow and paced beginning has a very steep drop off! Through twists, turns, sharp corners and whirlwind loops, this fast paced story gives you no time to breathe between the intensity. Something about the way Seth Collins’ hard hitting drums begin track six, joined quickly by the rich and dark bass of Rick Hopkins, is less a reprieve and more like hearing the rumbling footsteps of an army approaching swiftly. Possibly the sound of a tsunami approaching. The sound of an inevitable and inescapable fate rushing down upon its victims.
If I had to shorten this review to a few words that I feel describe Onward to Oblivion it would come down to rage, fire, destruction and chaos with an intermingling fear of demise for all woeful souls. Corpse God has done an amazing job conveying the creative mind of Lovecraftian insanity bringing forth an Elder God from which none can flee. I don’t want to spoil all the surprises you’ll find on this release, but I can tell you there’s a lot more to this CD than meets the eye. I guess you’ll have to listen for yourself to find out what Corpse God has blessed you with.
While this article is being released at a point where they’ve already brought the house down with their release show, you can find them at this year’s Horrid Fest in June. Before then, be sure you click the links in this article to follow, purchase, and get to know Corpse God better quickly… you know, just in case their musical efforts actually end up waking the Elder God during one fine summer day….
