The new NECROPHOBIC album is undoubtedly the most imaginative and creative of the band’s career to date, but as Ramstedt avows, this is neither the time nor place for radical departures. Although Necrophobic have always existed in a dark and diabolical lyrical realm, Dawn Of The Damned is unique amongst the band’s records due to its refined parallels between Ramstedt’s personal experiences and the universal forces with which we all battle. The band’s ninth studio album is still a brutal whirlwind of aggression, of course, but something more grimly magical lurks within its subtler textures and ingenious side-steps. Already destined to be one of the metal records of 2020, and an inspirational antidote to the insanity all around us, Dawn Of The Damned would score full marks from most diehards, even without the added thrill of hearing DESTRUCTION vocalist Schmier making an appearance. Proving that it’s eminently possible to stick to your guns while flexing new muscles at the same time, NECROPHOBIC have enjoyed a turbulent three-decade rise to glory. Currently in the form of their malevolent lives and enjoying a new wave of acclaim and popularity, the Swedes’ future looks brighter – and, of course, blacker – than ever. Ultimately, there’s no mistaking the sound of the real, Satanic deal.
Ltd. 2 CD Mediabook & Patch