Symbolical – Natura EP
Symbolical – Natura
Self-Released
Release Date: 08/09/22
Running Time: 23:00
Review by Paul Hutchings
9/10
Formed in Warsaw, Poland, almost a decade ago, it might be tempting and easy to mix the band with either of the two German outfits by the name Symbolic. It might also be reasonable to expect a connection of tribute with Death. Whilst there is the inevitable influence, this is a Death Metal band after all, Symbolical’s sound is definitively their own.
This EP, which comprises three tracks that stretch over 23 minutes, is the second part of a trilogy of EP’s that the band are releasing and follows “Igne,” which surfaced at the end of 2021. As you delve deeper into the EP, you may notice the multiple links with William Blake. The EP cover is inspired by Blake’s works whilst his lyrics are spread throughout the songs. Based on “The First Book of Urizen”, originally published in 1794, the three tracks form part of the story which is explained best by vocalist and guitarist Cymer: It’s time to open our new chapter about Jesus. He will face Dark Urizen – Universe’s brother who cast Jesus into hell where he will become the leader of demon army. We still keep the spirit of former albums but for the first time we decided to use William Blake’s lyrics – The First books of Urizen.”
It’s for you to do the deep dive into the background of the release and the stories behind it but I must admit to being intrigued and listed the exploration of Blake’s works as a future endeavour. ‘The Dread World’ opens in sombre fashion, a sole violin casting its reach far whilst shimmering percussion provides atmosphere and drama. It may start slowly but the explosive Death Metal, which the band suddenly erupt into is anything but sedate. Cymer’s roars and screams are demonic in nature, whilst the band link cohesively, accelerating before slowing into a crushing Doom-laden section. Anchoring the band, drummer Daray, former Vader and Dimmu Borgir member doesn’t miss a beat. His engine room battery provides Cymer and fellow guitarist Sloq to carve out lacerating lead breaks that are ferocious.
More relentless aural assault follows on ‘Dark Urizen,’ with aggressive growls bursting forth as the maelstrom of chaos is unleashed around. It’s a blistering approach, but Symbolical incorporate melodic patterns and lines into their approach, which not only enhances their sound but provides the listener with more to experience. A guest solo from Tomasz Radzikowski (Spirits Way, ex-Black Altar) screams out of the track adding even more.
It’s the band’s use of time changes that also provides something a little different. Dips in the delivery merely add to the overall feel of the tracks, building tension rather than adopting a full throttle blast beat attack. It works well and leads neatly into the progressive finale, the ten-minute ‘Abominable Chaos’. A vast, expansive rampage, this is impressive, majestic in nature and brings a short but sweet EP to its end with a flourish of high quality.
‘The Dread World’ Official Video
TRACKLISTING:
01.The Dread World
02. Dark Urizen
03. Abominable Chaos
LINE-UP:
Paweł “Cymer” Cymerman – Guitar, Vocal
Konrad “Sloq” Słoczyński – Guitar
Dariusz “Daray” Brzozowski – Drums
Łukasz “Lukas” Matyja – Bass
LINKS:
Disclaimer: This review is solely the property of Paul Hutchings and Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.
