You look at that name, you look at that art, you even look at the few band members, and you know that Thunraz’s Incineration Day isn’t going to be an easy ride. It’s not going to be chill or fun. This looks like a trip straight into hell—everything unholy and obscene. But am I exaggerating? Am I falling for the solid marketing job by its creators? In a year brimming with complex and impressive Disso-Death, Thunraz will need something truly distinctive to stand out among the heavyweights. Enough talk—let’s dive in!
Oh wow. This thing is oppressive! At least, that’s the initial impression Incineration Day leaves with its first few tracks. But there’s more here than just Disso-Death or lo-fi old-school Death Metal dredged from the sewer. The album sneaks in strange gothic and atmospheric sections, which I’m not entirely sure how to process (aside from feeling sick—but in the right way!). It’s clear that Thunraz refuses to conform to expectations, taking bold risks that would make many other bands blush. That alone earns my respect, even if I don’t always fully get it.
Don’t worry—it still sounds inhuman and decadent. The production is muddy but clear enough to appreciate the chaos. Vocals range from ultra-deep Akercocke to more recent Tribulation—and if that doesn’t pique your interest, I don’t know what will. The writing is chaotic, but the album maintains a pace that almost gives it a sense of unity. And yet, it still evokes imagery of long-abandoned urban spaces, now decaying into oblivion. Half the band hails from the U.S., but it still nails that post-Soviet meltdown aesthetic. Who doesn’t love a bit of austerity? Oh, nobody? Just the banks? Noted.
Why couldn’t they take a picture together? Oh, that’s right…
This isn’t an album every Death Metal fanatic will enjoy. It’s weird, blending elements that shouldn’t work together. Sometimes, I found myself more puzzled than pleased. The production, while adding a unique atmosphere, can feel suffocating. Plus, Thunraz’s eclecticism might throw you off between tracks. For instance, “Spiritual Self-Surgery” might overstay its welcome, especially since the rest of the album feels more direct. There are your yellow flags (and hey, unlike your dating life, no red flags here in Incineration Day).
Still, if you’re craving something strange that clings to that crusty, dirty ethos of more grounded Death Metal, Thunraz offers something intriguing. The album’s brevity works in its favor—if you don’t love everything, it’s still not a massive time investment. And while I walked away wanting more (or maybe something different), I’ll be keeping an eye on this project. I suspect the band has even wilder ideas in store, and I’m ready for it.
Label: Self-released
Release date: 22 November, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/thunrazmetal
Country: Estonia/USA
Score: a burnt down 3.0/5.0!
Metal Eclipse Reviews 