Don’t ask me why, but there’s an unfathomable resurgence of bands that like to to take inspiration from less conventional mythologies. To be fair, many do have some sort of connection with the respective regions. Here at MER, we welcome any new takes on old Metal. So, when I noticed that Mythologik‘s Blood in the Sky was joining the hottest trend in extreme Metal (only slightly, there’s so much more here), I wanted a piece of it. After all, opportunism is the key to survival, kids. Enough chatting, let’s jump in then!
Am I getting older, or is it becoming harder and harder to put bands in a box? Mythologik touches on Black, Thrash, MeloDeath, and Heavy Metal. However, the only thing that remains sort of obvious in the album is the rough/harsh vibe. I won’t lie to you people; I’m a bit fed up with so much blending, but Mythologik gives it a rougher and more impulsive feeling that brings something fresh to the table. This is, after all, a self-released debut album, so mad respect for making something that could pass as any “big” label release. So, yes, the niche is getting overcrowded, but Blood in the Sky is strange enough to still find its place in this pointless world.
I know the promo highlighted the vocals, and it sucks having to agree with the promo, because why would you read me if I’m just going to regurgitate the promo again? This is almost a quote from one of the bands we reviewed, and Amen to that, my friend. Anyway, the vocals are mad and permeate the whole deliverance of the album. In fact, they’re the most characteristic and unique aspect here. You have this Folk, MeloDeath, and Black combo, and on top of that, these vocals that don’t fit at all yet they do (yes, I’m not making sense), because they’re not what you expect. But sometimes, I also want surprises in my boring adult routine.
There are things that didn’t make me jump into the bloodbath, though. The production is slightly unpolished. I admit that can have its charm (we have a whole section in the blog about that), but I would’ve liked these riffs to punch me harder (the more Metal you have, the more you can get beaten up and suck it up!). I know I sort of praised the vocals, but I’m sure they’re going to be a more polarizing subject than extremely relevant political questions, such as “tea or coffee?”. You simply won’t see it coming. Other than that, Blood in the Sky is interesting, even if none of the songs stuck in my head right away. You might need a few listens before it grows on you.
I think Mythologik has the potential to create its own brand within the growing “eclectic” Metal market. This album is a good effort that will put them on the map. So, if you’re obsessed with this style of Metal, Blood in the Sky will give you what you love, but with small tweaks here and there. If you hate it more than yourself, well, you’re going to stay hateful. I’ll be returning to my 9:00-15:00 job now. Life is so hard!
Label: Self-release
Date: 14 June, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/mythologiktx
Country: USA (TEXAS!!!)
Score: angry shouting in the desert! Or 3.0/5.0 for the obnoxious ones (guys, just ignore the scores, please).
Metal Eclipse Reviews 