Hellfrost – Dark Ages
Hellfrost – Dark Ages
Self-Released
Release Date: 09/09/22
Running Time: 35:00
Review by Paul Hutchings
5/10
Following up their 2019 album “Extinction,” US metal duo Hellfrost return with their third release Dark Ages. Over 35 minutes and nine tracks, it’s not an album that has grabbed me with any level of enthusiasm or excitement. It’s mundane listening, with the songs basic in construction and vocals that really don’t do anything at all, despite the full Blackened Thrash that they bring.
An insipid start via the title track doesn’t inspire whilst ‘Lost Woods’ despite a decent piece of lead guitar is slow and dull. The album feels artificial, the obvious use of drum machine not helping with authenticity, soul, or overall feel. Dave Vainer’s croaked vocals sound like a poor man’s Dr Evil from Evil Scarecrow, and one can’t help wondering if he could let go with a better range. It might help avoid him sounding like a constipated swan on future releases.
There’s little to actually eulogise about on this album. The music is solid enough but despite the odd flash, it’s all a little on the slow and uninspiring range. Penultimate song ‘Tree of Bones’ does at least bring a bit of groove, albeit marred by the rasping vocals.
Soaked in Sabbath worship, Hellfrost do at least honour their roots, but there’s a vast improvement needed if they intend to take future steps forward. At the moment, the best track was ‘Final Kill,’ for that signalled the end of this average record which sadly receives an average score.
TRACKLISTING:
01. Dark Ages
02. Lost Woods
03. Awake in a Coffin
04. Behind the Wall
05. Abomination
06. Six Eyes
07. The Decent
08. Tree of Bones
09. Final Kill
LINE-UP:
Dave Vainer- Vocals and Guitar
Syd Vainer- Bass
LINKS:
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