In the unforgiving landscape of the Death Metal scene, it’s hard for a band to find its own voice. Everyone has done it all—been too brutal, too technical, too weird—and we’ve loved and hated it all. Maul’s approach in its upcoming release, In the Jaws of Bereavement, aims to stand out from the sea of distortion and blast beats. Nobody said it would be easy, but I’m sure it’s going to be wild! So, let’s dig into this meat and potatoes now!
At first, I wasn’t entirely convinced about what Jaws was going for, but after a second run-through, it hit me! This album is slightly different from your average Death Metal experience. Yes, it’s a bit groovy, but also melodic. It’s slow in parts, but with nasty breakdowns that don’t lean too much into Core territory—which is always a plus. It even has a touch of that Swedish Death Metal sound here and there. So yes, I just said a band with breakdowns doesn’t suck—that won’t happen too often here, I hope. It works because this element isn’t overused like a public bench. See? Everything can work when done in moderation (except meth!).
Maybe it’s the thick bass lines or the old-school distortion, but what really grabbed my attention were the brutal, inhuman vocals in Jaws. There’s a good deal of variation, but when they go low, it’s like Akercocke-level deep. Of course, that’s my cup of tea. If the whole album was like this, it’d be a problem, but fortunately, Maul knows when to switch things up so we don’t get bored. I’d still say this mid-tempo beatdown isn’t my forte, but if you need something heavy and you hate the gloom of depressive Black Metal, this energy will suit you better. You know me though—I’ve got to mention the questionable creative choices.
If you love this style, you probably won’t find anything wrong with this album. It delivers what it promises: solid Death Metal with some Core elements sprinkled in. Maul’s approach isn’t revolutionary, but it’s not a carbon copy either—it’s fun and engaging. My biggest complaint? I’m more curious than excited about the album. As a whole, it’s cool, but I can’t pinpoint any spectacular moments that stick with me forever. For once, I’m not complaining about the editing. The band doesn’t overuse repetitive ideas, but I would’ve enjoyed it more if it had taken a few more risks.
Still, I had fun with this mean little beast. It wasn’t what I expected, but in a good way. Sometimes you’ve got to leave your comfort zone and try something filthy. For me, that was Maul, and maybe it’ll be the same for you. Otherwise, there are a million more dangerous and questionable things you could do—but how about starting with something safer, like listening to some godless, punishing Death Metal/Core? There’s nothing to lose. You’ve wasted your time before, so why not do it in a more productive way for once? Like, helping a band or something. Think about it!
Label: 20 Buck Spin
Release date: 4 October, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/MAULND
Country: USA
Score: Getting mauled by a bear! Or 3.5/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 