ATOMIC AGGRESSOR - The Occult Forces

The band were actively involved in shaping their regions' metal scene from the late 80's and early 90’s and are active once again since several reawakening’s in recent decades. Having their musical roots firmly planted within death metal there are occasional thrashy leanings infused on several tracks, and strong influences of classic Florida death pioneers Morbid Angel and Death worship are notably observed with their punchy and angular chord structures, wild breakaway leads, and chaotic shredding. Lots of frantic riff patterns, double-kick overloads, and high gained bass and caustic throat growls seem to place homage to their obvious luminaries while playing their own blackened musical practices.

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Lovecraftian horror and other dark arts are the main themes covered in the lyric department, and if the screamed intro on the opener Soul Degradation and its tightly worked riff ensembles is an indication of what lies ahead, then you’re in for a maniacally good time. Forms from the Occult follow a similar form but with a slightly more German thrashy feel with solid chuggery and intricate solo work. Evil from Beneath is perhaps the catchiest and most intriguing track, that shifts from thrashy beatdowns to black metal inspired barbarity and not straying from their deathly realms.  

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Whilst heavy in the weight department, the production mix keeps each element distinct and even across the soundboard, with each member’s input heard with clarity and precision. Dwellers of the Unknown feels like a modern death-thrash masterclass with its fierce shredding and twisted leads, as is the superb Divided to Conceived that summons the brutish intensity of morbid nuances. Tormenting Voices concludes this hellish exposition with a thrashy vibe beaten into submission with tight riffages and blazing solo work to wind out this conjuration.

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Those loyal to the classic Floridian death scene and late 80’s thrash will find much joy in this sonic melee of high-speed savagery and diabolical efficiency. With a sound and style reminiscent of the previously mentioned Morbid Angel and Death, shades of Pestilence, Mortem, Immolation, Possessed and fellow Chileans, Pentagram, are felt with this release. For an album that traverses eras from past to present, The Occult Forces is timeless as it is belligerent. ATOMIC AGGRESSOR has proven their ferocity remains unchallenged and their presence shines brighter in the darkness for aeons to come. 

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SCORE 9/10

Reviewed by glennosp