Carnosus has both the blessing and the curse of having dropped one of the best albums (and probably the best Tech Death album) of 2023: Visions of Infinihility. It took the underground by storm, and before we could even recover, the band is back with Wormtales. Many of us were nervous that it was too soon for Carnosus to hit us with more of its unique approach to Tech Death. But if there was one band capable of pulling off this feat, it was Carnosus. So, let’s dive in!
Alright, this might sound ridiculous, but despite digging the band, I never quite understood all the hype. With Wormtales, I’m starting to get it—hopefully. You see, Carnosus isn’t the most brutal, the most complex, or even the strangest band out there, but its strength lies in two key aspects, both perfectly showcased here. First, the band’s ability to seamlessly blend influences from Tech Death, MeloDeath, and even some Core elements, making it all fit effortlessly—similar to what Unhallowed Deliverance achieved earlier this year. The songwriting is smooth and unexpectedly deep. Second, Wormtales doesn’t waste time. It’s lean, efficient, and straight to the point.
The vocal choices on this album continue to puzzle me, but in a good way. There’s so much variation, and at times, almost a Dracula-style enunciation on the “R”s. It may sound like a minor detail, but it gives Wormtales another thematic layer. Instead of the usual pretentious “philosophy” we often associate with Tech Death, Carnosus takes a creepier route, evoking vibes from other sub-genres. I don’t think this is an album you can fully unpack in one go, but it’s one you’ll keep discovering new layers of with every listen.
Now, a few subjective thoughts—though let’s be honest, all reviews are subjective, in case you haven’t noticed yet… While my brain is constantly blown away by the band’s relentless barrage of amazing riffs, killer solos, fun vocal choices, and impeccable pacing, it sometimes takes longer for these tracks to really hit me on an emotional level. However, this darker, more macabre approach is definitely a step in the right direction. It might click right away for you!
Time will tell if Wormtales will surpass Visions, but it’s nothing short of remarkable that a band from little Örebro (they do have a nice castle there, though!) can deliver two bone-crushing albums in a row. Maybe this is the beginning of an epic album streak that we’ll talk about for years, one of those runs that’s impossible to replicate. On a side note, I’m not sure how much a worms really have to say, but I appreciate Carnosus for being the worms’ ambassador to humanity (oh, and if you thought you were safe from a dad joke… hahaha!).
It deserves a full run!
Label: Willowtip Records
Release date: 18 October 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Carnosus/
Country: Sweden
Score: a bag of tasty worms, or 4.0/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 