Metalcatto
It’s been some time since I dared to return to the oversaturated nightmare that old school Death Metal has become. Astriferous has at least a name that indicates the band feels serious and comfortable in its corpse skin. Atavistic Unraveling should have enough tentacles for everyone. I’m just worried about the adrenaline dump this might cause me if it’s too old school.
Okay, it is a bit old school, but Atavistic Unraveling focuses more on sheer technicality rather than just caveman noises. Don’t worry—the atmosphere is still disturbing and primitive. That’s not going anywhere. If anything, it feels as if you’re being thrown into a horrible creature’s layer to be devoured as the healthiest snack of the afternoon. That has to sound heinous, right? Good.
I know these albums tend to be all about the moldy and cavernous atmosphere. However, Atavistic Unraveling has that Hyperdontia intensity mixed with proper guitar work. The riffs do offer something creative; it’s not just a hammer being swung around aimlessly. There’s a lot of order in this apparent chaos, but Astriferous doesn’t fool me. I’ve been in this business long enough to tell the difference between playing drunk and clueless versus just playing drunk.
Should I be mad at anything on this album? Not really. But I do find it harder and harder to tell these old school albums apart. They’re all technical and executed perfectly, but that’s something I can say about many of them. Atavistic Unraveling is consistent, but it won’t bring new converts to the cause. It’s for those who are already neck deep in the putrid swamp that Death Metal has become. So you’ve gotta be in love with the filth already; otherwise, you’ll just want a shower.
Okay, so I might have been harsh, but now you know what you’re getting into. Atavistic Unraveling is traditional Death Metal with a bit of a twist here and there—nothing that will make the earth stand still. But I know some of you can’t get enough of this sound. Otherwise, why would I keep receiving so many promos of this type? Or maybe we don’t understand the market and its needs. Yeah, that one. Either way, Astriferous delivers exactly what it promises. No more, no less. If you’re already a fan of the style, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. If you’re not, this won’t be the album to convert you. And that’s fine. Some music isn’t meant for everyone.
Label: Me Saco Un Ojo Records
Release date: June 26th , 2026
Website: astriferous.bandcamp.com
Country: Costa Rica
Score: 3.5/5.0
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