Review Summary: Brutal, Brutal, and Brutal. Seriously, it's Brutal.
Deeds of Flesh have been around for awhile now. They are also highly regarded in the Brutal Death Metal scene. 1 EP, 7 full-lengths, and even a DVD release, Deeds Of Flesh have done a good job of letting people in the underground know who they are. Deeds Of Flesh are highly regarded for a reason. Each album they release showcases a furious combination of technicality, brutality, and just plain catchy songs.
Crown Of Souls is Deed's 6 full-length release and is a very impressive addition to the catalog. The Production on Crown of Souls is, for the lack of a better word, interesting. Every instrument sounds faint and distant, though this tone actually makes the album sound even better than what it already is. The vocals sound good too, they are clear, loud, and for the most part, intelligible.
Erik Lindmark does a superb job in the guitar department, combining groove laden breakdowns with technical, and even sometimes melodic riffs. Each track on the album contains at least one catchy riff that will impress you, but at the same time be stuck in your head for days on end. This what Erik Lindmark sets out to achieve, and he hits the nail on the head. This is Brutal Death Metal though, and you will occasionally find crushing, chugging sections throughout and it all sounds spot on. Jacoby Kingston does a solid job on bass, easily keeping up with Lindmark. Even at times when things start to really pick up speed wise, Kingston hangs in there and shows his bass work is nothing but skillful. Mike Hamilton does a good enough standard death metal drumming effort. He makes great use of blast beats and double bass, and knows how to get things going very quickly. The vocals on Crown of Souls are your familiar Deeds of Flesh fare. Low, guttural vocals from Lindmark, and the occasional scream or two from Kingston.
Crown of Souls is an excellent album. There's nothing really bad that stands out about it except for maybe a few weak tracks, though you will find yourself coming back to COS quite often for some great moments. While obviously not Deeds of Flesh's most amazing or unique album, but It's definitely a worthy addition to the catalog of one of the most recognized Brutal Death Metal bands today.
Standout Tracks:
Crown of Souls
Hammer-Forged Blade
Medical Murder
Crimson Offering
