SPIRITUAL DECAY

You may need to take a shower after time spent with SPIRITUAL DECAY's "Closer to the Grave". The sound is old school, dirty, and primitive. No light shines in the cavernous world in which the quartet resides. It is not the greatest death metal release I've ever heard, but does have its moments and may even appeal to fans of a mid-paced grinding style that is ugly as hell and disgustingly filthy, if not especially moving.

The reference points for SPIRITUAL DECAY include BOLT THROWER (without the same memorable songwriting) and pinches of mudslingers like AUTOPSY. On the whole, the group succeeds at getting across a sickening vibe and riding putrid grooves that could stand more variation, but then again the point really has nothing to do with wowing the masses with tech-death prowess. Female growler/bassist Shawna Silvers offers harsh vocals that pretty much remain the same, but basically get the job done. Backing vocals from guitarist Kevin Graf offer a decent contrast to Silvers' throaty work. Sinister lead-guitar squeals and morbid six-string cries work more as musical accompaniment than "solos" per se, the result enhancing the already smoky atmosphere. A sort of KING DIAMOND operatic vocal is heard on "Prisoner of War" and "Steer", like an apparition floating over the sludgy tones and primal beats. The effect is strange at best, but at least provides a different twist to the disc's otherwise unrelenting plod.

I can appreciate "Closer to the Grave" for its vintage vibes and pitch-black aura, but it will rarely, if ever, find its back way into my CD player. And at 66 minutes, it is way too long. Diehard fans of death metal's early underground rumblings, as well as folks that shy away from more inventive and/or technical fare may find some enjoyment with this one. Given the right mood "Closer to the Grave" is somewhat enjoyable. It's just not very memorable.