I happen to be from an area that spawns many talented bands, spanning all genres of metal and hardcore, and when it comes to death metal, Abnormality ranks high. Their style of brutal tech death is simply punishing with their new album, Contaminating the Hive Mind. The album starts off with “Monarch Omega,” fast, technical, insanely heavy, letting you know right off the bat what you’re in for. The string section in this song, from guitarists Ben Durgin and Jeremy Henry along with bass work from Josh Staples, is awesome. The riffs carry the song very well, the solo is great, and the plucks of the bass give it that extra umph. Another notable song is “Schismatic,” one of the faster paced songs on the album. The song is just a straight frenzy of chaos. Jay Blaisdell‘s drumming is outrageous, with blast beats firing like a mini gun and with the size of his kit makes for a barrage of clatter that never gets mundane. Mallika Sundaramurthy guttural growls are terrifying. The guitar work from Durgin and Henry is exceptional, conveying more than just riffs and chugs, but change and intrigue to keep your attention. All around Contaminating the Hive Mind is a solid effort and one that should be in your collection.
RATING: 8.5 / 10
By: Matt Darcy
Band Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AbnormalityOfficial
