REVIEW: Wormed, "Metaportal" EP

By: Eeli Helin

Album Type: EP

Date Released: 19/07/2019

Label: Season of Mist

“Metaportal” CD/DD track listing:

1. Remote Void

2. Cryptoubiquity

3. Bionic Relic

4. E-Xystem://CE

The Review:

It's always an extremely tough spot to lose someone. Every single one of us knows the mental weight and physical toll it takes to pull through it. When it comes to handling such a thing, there are no winners or losers, there is not a right or wrong way to deal with it, granted that some of the natural coping mechanisms written to our code might do more harm than good in the greater scheme of things. Experiencing something first hand is also always harder, and you can't even begin to imagine how someone else treats those feelings. Transferring these instances to the world of music, it's always untold what'll happen if a band loses one of it's members. It can go multiple ways, and we as an audience have to respect that decision.

This scenario sadly came to reality with the Spanish sci-fi tech death group Wormed last year, when they lost their drummer G-Calero, whose outstanding performance can be heard on their latest full-length, 2016's "Krighsu". Soon after the news broke, Wormed announced that they will continue their trek to the unimaginably immense, unexplored depths of the cosmos, hence giving their listeners a moment of relief with a promise of new music. Approximately a year from that, they announced their new EP titled "Metaportal" will be released on July 19th, through Season of Mist.

"Metaportal" continues the previous albums lead character Krighsu's (who is the very last posthuman being in a robotised galaxy, mind you) voyage to the vast void. Krighsu must ingress a colossal metaportal of unknown origin, in order to help a galactic system endangered by an abysmal nano-technological war meant to wipe out the last human-derivative being. However desperate and hopeless that might sound, "Metaportal" offers some unexpectedly warm yet inconsolable tones Wormed hasn’t probed before, at least not to this extent. My first impression was that the aforementioned loss might be the direct causation to this. The robotic drones and mechanic hums have been introduced on the previous albums, but this time around they are even more elaborate and emotionally infused. That being said, these refined, fresh aspects don't create a blanding effect, but rather give Wormed's output much needed contrast. The mix is also perhaps more organic than before; Take that as you will, it might sound a bit like a heresy all things considered. The atmosphere is still tightened to extreme proportions at all times, so you will enjoy the tone of this release if you've enjoyed the previous ones.

The EP opens in a signature manner with "Remote Void"; Short intro followed by complete chaos underlaid with gravity blasts and topped with Phlegeton's sewer creature-ish vocals. Habitually, rapid tempo and time signature changes are constantly present, leaving absolutely no room for easement at any point. This is also a trademark motion of Wormed, and considering that alone, the EP format is very fitting and easier to digest by those with less-hardened ears. While the actual song fires with all cylinders throughout, the fresh ambiance pieces make their debut in the end, acting as a bridge to the second track "Cryptoubiquity". This pattern occurs through the whole releases, tying the individual songs together, strengthening the cohesive atmosphere in a similar manner they do on their full-lengths.

The third track "Bionic Relic" showcase the band stretching themselves further than you could've ever imagined. The complexity is taken to a whole new level, leaving the listener baffled, wondering how it is humanely possible to perform music like this. Even after taking into account their absurd past work, you'll hear a band continuously pushing itself to become greater, and that is perhaps the most beautiful aspect to Wormed overall. They already master their craft, there is not a single other band sounding like this, but instead of beaming those familiar and safe grounds, they refine and improve themselves. The finest examples of this progression might be the groovy parts in "Cryptoubiquity" that'll make your legs twitch uncontrollably even harder than before and the slamming parts, long blast beat sections crusted with melodies and just the general oddity and excitement caused by it during "Bionic Relic".

The closing track "E-Xystem://CE" throws some really unexpected curveballs at your way before going back to more customary pace, mostly in terms of the piano intro, followed by a calm and lanquid, emotive palm mutes vs open chords section and a somewhat new(!) vocal style. This track highlights some previously unexamined colours through catchy rhythms and eerie melodies that'll get stuck in your head permanently. As a weird little fact, towards the end I had to take off my headphones because I thought something was breaking. I was correct in a way, but instead of failing technology, what was broken was my spirit and well-being. Still, in a rather positive way. Since this is a mini-release, you won't get to exhausted or worn out as you could with a full-length, which adds to the tolerable and pleasant side of things. However, Wormed has all the tools to transplant these tones to their albums, so "Metaportal" could lead to some inconceivable, seriously mindboggling results.

What's for sure, is that if you didn't like them before, you won't like them now, that's just how it is. A lot of intricacies will get lost if you're not familiar with their older efforts. Wormed is also that kind of band who has it's time and place, and it's by no means fitting to all occasions. Another thing that it certain is, that you will love "Metaportal" if you liked what you heard on "Exodromos" and "Krighsu". You also have to appreciate the time and detail put into the lyrics, narrating a developing and branching story that doesn't pale in comparison to those sci-fi films that fly so far over your head. Without descending into any more tautologies, you could educate yourself by reading these lyrics even if you didn't enjoy the music at all, and that speaks about their value quite a lot. I know I am interested in where the metaportal came from and what Krighsu will discover after taking the leap and can't even begin to explain the excitement I'm having for the follow-up.

“Metaportal” is available HERE

Band info: facebook || bandcamp

The Sludgelord "Sour 16 for July 2016

By: Aaron Pickford

As we talk stock at The Sludgelord, that we achieved the milestone of publishing 4000 articles and over 2000 album reviews this week (n.b. Steve Howe’s contributions cannot be understated), our commitment to offer you many more magnificent riffs is unwavering, therefore it is time cast our minds back upon the month of July and digest the 16 albums that would become July’s sacrilegious ‘Sour 16’, the finest and most profane riffs around bundled together into a premium sized sonic soufflé.

You know the drill, each month; you the reader are unwittingly compiling a list of the top 16 records that we featured in July, covering all genres of metal.  Is it not a chart, in which reviewers or contributors extol their opinion about their favourite music.  The ‘Sour 16’ are the records that have been trending the most at Sludgelord Headquarters.

The results are compiled based on page views alone and calibrated into the list below. So kick back, with a cold one and let the power of the riff compel thee! All reviews can be viewed by clicking the artwork and we have included album streams wherever possible. (Total views since their publication are highlighted in red)

16). Graves At Sea – “The Curse That Is” (303)

The album opener and title track drops the anchor to establish the length, tone and rhythm this 76 minute voyage is about. An unpredictable, violent haze of amplifier worship, “The Curse That Is” is a strong candidate for one of the top 10 albums of 2016.

15). The Human Condition – “Pathways” (308)

This is a classy album, full of doom and melancholy. The band are great live and boasts some of the North West's most enduring doom talent from such luminaries as Unsilence, for instance. The band play a blinder throughout and front man Nathan Harrison really captures the feeling of powerlessness so prevalent in the lyrics and themes here. Harrowing stuff indeed.

14). The Order of Israfel – “Red Robes” (330)

Titled "Red Robes," their sophomore album is a crushing slab of classic doom. Twin guitar harmonies permeate the arrangements; slow, lumbering beats intermingle with high-energy, uptempo passages; stark vocals deliver creep out lyrics; all in support of their almighty neck breaking riffs.

13). Wytch Hazel – “Prelude” (343)

If you have any interest in Tull, Ash, Lizzy, Sabbath et al and yearn for a band to come along and play like those heroes of a bygone era, Wytch Hazel are definitely worth your time and money. They are a great band and one that is doing something unique- out are occult tropes and devil-ish imagery, in are song-writing, medieval sonics/themes and enthusiasm rather than cynicism. A triumphant record on every level.

12). Bleak – “No Light No Tunnel” (350)

From the jagged intro of “Teeth” to the guttural barks that bring “Fuck Your God” to a close, Bleak do not let up for a second. Every track here is a potent blend of Converge’s nastiest moments and the crushing attack of Coalesce brewed in a vat of filthy, thick sludge.  “No Light No Tunnel” is not pretty but makes for a horribly captivating listen. Few records this year will match the vitriolic onslaught Bleak deliver here.

11). Adolyne – “Of Ash/Of Shit/Of Shame” (363)

The whole album feels like it’s teetering on the edge of collapse which lends a real thrill and urgency to proceedings. This is felt most strongly during epic closer “Brawler’s Fracture”. Intense, restless riffing akin to Keelhaul is swallowed by a buzzing swarm of squealing guitars that threaten to consume all. Just before chaos fully descends, the track breaks into a crushing slow-motion finale.  “Of Ash/Of Shit/Of Shame” is a skilfully constructed visceral journey. Adolyne create a unique noise, a captivating damaged racket that will enrapture those with a taste for uneasy listening.

10). Wo Fat – “Midnight Coment” (400)

Stoner, psychedelia, doom and classic rock all coalesce here with massive results. Only one track under five minutes, the rest sprawling languidly well over that mark. Hendrix jamming with Fu Manchu and Sabbath¸ simply put, this is storming stuff; wrought from the heaviest of iron and the lightest of air. Massive.

9). Ghold – “PYR” (444)

“PYR” is an exceptional release from Ghold that really cements their position as the finest heavy act in the UK right now. It is the sound of a band who exist in a world of their own, above and beyond our plane of existence and drifting ever closer to the outer limits.

8). Reproacher – “Nature’s Bastard” (475)

Huge, awkward riffs dominate the landscape, their ugly, discordant racket is reminiscent of Converge at their nastiest.  This is a mighty offering, a captivating combination of savage intensity and considered dynamics.

7). Cough – “Still They Pray” (507)

6). Solothus – “No King Reigns Eternal” (748)

An encompassing album with an unforgiving heaviness, "No King Reigns Eternal" sees Finns Solothus’ improve on their debut album, and release one of the heaviest doom releases so far this year. Instilled with death metal elements and no signs of calm, it is a harrowing album full of weighty monolithic riffs and a murky atmosphere.

5). Wormed – “Krighsu” (953)

Krighsu’ is ten tracks of unrelenting tech-death, set at a warp speed that has no intention of ever slowing down.  Space is infinite, and it seems WORMED’s ability to create jaw-breakingly heavy music is just as vast.

4). Cold World – “Autumn” (1033)

Börner writes and creates music that should appeal to both purist and tourist alike. Not because he haphazardly smashes the pieces into each other, like a child with their toys, but because his instincts and strengths do so organically.  “Autumn’ is flush with atmosphere and overall is a cohesive and brilliant listening experience.

3). Wretch – “Wretch” (1877)

This is a fine debut and a much needed shot of trad doom, with actual songs, - in an era of obsession with amps and pedals (but without, you know, actual songs and stuff). It is a triumph for this intrepid trio and surely there are great things to come for the band. Make no mistake, Wretch are here and Wretch will bring you real doom or throw you out of the bar if you don't like it.

2). Periphery – “Periphery III: Select Difficulty” (2009)

Experimental metal bands like Periphery will (hopefully) never settle for sticking to one particular groove.  Constantly innovating, this adds to “Juggernaut”, jumping off from that platform and diving into dark, unexplored depths.  Music should surprise and inspire, and “Periphery III: Select Difficulty” does both with eye-opening results.  Just watch out for unexpected face-melting, okay?

1). Dunsmuir – “Dunsmuir” (2021)

Dunsmuir, manages the uncanny trick of amounting to the sum of its parts. The record's players have some serious pedigree and none if it is wasted. Vinny Appice is as powerful as ever, with a beastly snare sound, while Bone and Davis are a formidable strings team. Fallon puts in a hardworking and uniformly stellar shift as per usual.  Simply put, if you like Clutch and Dio-era Sabbath, you will be right at home here. If you are a fan of Fu Manchu, there are sounds for you here as well. This album rocks, it’s that simple.

A big thank you as always to our amazing writers, your dedication knows no boundaries and for that I am truly grateful.  February’s “Sour 16” features reviews by:  Richard Maw, Daniel Jackson, George Parr, Charlie Butler, Chris Markwell, Doza Hawes  & Gerardo Pacheco

Wormed - "Krighsu" (Album Review)

By: Chris Markwell

Album Type: Full Length
Date Released: 18/03/2016
Label: Season of Mist

Krighsu’ is ten tracks of unrelenting tech-death, set at a warp speed that has no intention of ever slowing down.  Space is infinite, and it seems WORMED’s ability to create jaw-breakingly heavy music is just as vast.

“Krighsu” CD//DD//LP track listing:

1). Pseudo-Horizon
2). Neomorph Mindkind
3). Agliptian Codex Cyborgization
4). The Singularitarianism
5). Eukaryotic Hex Swarm
6). Computronium Pulsar Nanarchy
7). A-Life Omega Point
8). 57889330816,1
9). Zeroth-Energy Graviton
10). Molecular Winds

The Review:

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…

Well, it was 2013, actually, and it was over here in Wales…

Anyway, I reviewed an album by Spanish tech-metallers WORMED that was entitled ‘Exodromos’.  And it was a crushing, 2001: A Space Odyssey-esque obelisk of death metal that fairly slammed down upon me with terrifying force. 

Three years later, and I get to review their third album.  ‘Krighsu’ was released in March of this year through Season of Mist, and takes you, the listener, on a journey into the deepest, darkest realms of sonic space.  My advice is to prepare your body for the void, and jettison any lingering doubts about keeping your sanity.  If it is gravity-distorting riffs and punishing vocals you’re after, you’ve found it. 

Let’s talk a little bit about these vocals.  Seriously, Phlegeton the singer can’t be human.  He just can’t.  More likely than not he’s actually the embodiment of the rumblings of dark, distant stars, his insidious utterances mounted upon the most irradiated music ever to defile a set of speakers.  If this music were a sci-fi film, it would be ‘Alien’ as directed by Eli Roth on a particularly angry day. 

Tracks such as ‘Eukaryotic Hex Swarm’ and ‘Agliptian Codex Cyborgization’ are as wordy as they are heavy, bringing riffs and rage hammering down upon you like meteors from an unkind sky.  If you’ve been needing a Necrophagist fix and have been jonesing for a similar kind of audio battery, then may I humbly suggest taking WORMED as needed for the pain, and then calling your local doctor in the morning to aid with any tinnitus-related ailments. 

‘Krighsu’ is ten tracks of unrelenting tech-death, set at a warp speed that has no intention of ever slowing down.  Space is infinite, and it seems WORMED’s ability to create jaw-breakingly heavy music is just as vast.  To say this is one of 2016’s heaviest offerings so far is an understatement, and if anything can top it… to play THAT album would probably level your house. 

Stay safe.  Look to the dark night sky, listen to WORMED, and dream of dark stars. 

“Krighsu” is available here

Band info: bandcamp || facebook