Abysse – EN(D)GRAVE (2012)

With a very aggressive dosage of Instrumental Metal, today we have France’s Abysee and their debut full-length “EN(D)GRAVE”. Claiming to avoid the ‘romantic interludes’, this band does a fine job in crafting engaging instrumental music with very aggressive riffing and a high-level of intensity. The band can easily be compared with compatriots Aluk Todolo, but with their own signature style of crafting epic songs.

Opening with “Eagle Haast”, the band immediately comes out punching with their intricate powerful riffs and heavy sense for melody. This is one of those songs that you keep waiting for the singer to come out and ruin it, but it is awesome that the band decided to just go instrumental with such an elaborate song (and release). “Ten Thousand Changes” and “Mastodon” keep the momentum going with more powerful guitars and very well-crafted drumming. “Mastodon” has a nice Southern Rock/Sludgy vibe to it that fans of these genres will surely appreciate.

After some experimental stuff in the intro of “Forest Monument”, it is time for the guitar solos to run loose in this emotional track. Our favorite track is the multi-layered “Golden Life” and it’s very aggressive and Sludge-like nature. We are quite pleased on how this song slowly progresses and delivers surprises along the way. Long before we wanted the party to be over, the closer “Light For Wheke” creeps up on you. In this track, we have very solid weeping guitars surrounded by heavy riffs and very crafty drumming. The bass guitar that is quite present through this release also plays a front-stage role in this catchy song.

As far as Instrumental Metal releases go, “EN(D)GRAVE” is one of the better ones we have received this 2012. Abysse does a great job in taking away the dull parts of music with vocals and delivers seven tracks of excellent riffs and aggressive music. If you are a fan of bands with a high sense of awareness for melody and power, this is one band you should not be missing.

Release: April 23rd, 2012

Genre: Instrumental Post Metal

Country: France