Serum Dreg

Lustful Vengeance

BY Brayden TurennePublished Apr 17, 2018

9
Like an ode to all things debaucherous and blasphemic, Serum Dreg's sophomore effort fits in perfectly with the whole of the Vrasubatlat identity, which has garnered a reputation for unerring quality lathered in filth. Through Lustful Vengeance, the power of raw and primal simplicity is displayed to maximum effect, as this nuclear two-piece evoke genuine nihilistic conviction.
 
"Rotten Pillar/Lustful Vengeance" is both the longest and most diverse track, opening with a synth atmosphere that shatters under the razor distortion of blackened death that ascends from mid- to raging high-tempo chaos. "Edifice of Hatred" and "Impure Ceremony" display Serum Dreg's mastery of addictive riffage and grooves. "Death Ritual" is perhaps the most obvious display of primitive satanic revelry, drawing on the freakish evil of Impaled Nazarene. It's simple, fast, and bubbling over with rabies as the vocals burn the ears like venom against flesh.
 
As is the test of great bands, Serum Dreg write with their influences plainly in view, though do not rely on them as a crutch. Lustful Vengeance balances its rotten heart with demonic fun that doesn't preoccupy itself with technicality or finesse. It harkens back to the core of what made this hateful form of music so engaging from the start in progenitor bands like Bathory and Blasphemy.
(Vrasubatlat), (Vrasubatlat)

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