I have always dubbed Skeletonwitch as "80's Metallica with Satan as a vocalist". While this is still true for the most part, Skeletonwitch has embraced a more melodic sound on Forever Abomination. From the acoustic guitar sections on "This Horrifying Force (The Desire To Kill)" to the melodic black/death metal inspired soloing on "Cleaver Of Souls", Skeletonwitch is able to work melodic influences in with their frenzied thrash attack effortlessly. The new-found melody makes Skeletonwitch sound more refined and varied and makes for some of the best material Skeletonwitch has ever crafted. While there is still plenty of straight-up thrash on this album, I found myself enjoying the melodic tracks (especially the aforementioned "This Horrifying Force" and "Cleaver Of Souls") more than the fast, raging ones. This new style has given guitarist Nate Garnette even more of a chance to shine. He has been one of the best guitarists in metal for a while, but he really stepped his game up on this record. He lays down great riffs and fret-ripping solos like they are going out of style. His brother, vocalist Chance Garnette, still delivers his trademark demonic vocals in top-form. His screams are amongst the most sinister and bad-ass in all of metal. It's a shame he doesn't get more recognition for what he does vocally.
Forever Abomination is a furious and fast yet melodic record. It's the classic Skeletonwitch sound with more of a melodic vibe and it works on every possible level. It takes their sound to new heights and explores a lot of previously uncharted territory for the band. The riffs, vocals, solos, and production are top-notch as always. It's going to take a few more listens, but this record might be better than Beyond The Permafrost. Forever Abomination is yet another gem of a record from Skeletonwitch and will be placing very highly on my year-end list.
4.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks
1.Cleaver Of Souls
2.This Horrifying Force (The Desire To Kill)
3.Of Ash And Torment
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