Bad God Music (2011)

"Hacked to Perfection" is the debut from Florida two-piece Never to Arise, and it is quite an opening statement. This is Floridian DM in the classic mould, offering up an excellent balance between tech/brutal/groove elements. The songs are impressive; generally hard hitting with strong choruses and accomplished riffing. Good vocals too.

Unfortunately, not all is as rosy with this release as we might hope. I’m not normally bothered by covers, but this one is very amateurish. Secondly, the drums are programmed. I don’t have a problem with this per se and the guys have done an excellent job, but the overall effect is that the album sounds a bit cold and mechanical. I think a richer, warmer sound would have given more life to the songs and really boosted the atmosphere to the next level.

All of which is a pity, since the songs on "Hacked to Perfection" actually deserve more of a chance than some people might give them. Definitely a band to watch out for in the future, and here’s to hoping they manage to recruit a couple of new members to help them fill out that sound!

www.myspace.com/nevertoarise
http://badgodmusic.com/

Rating: 4 / 6

Composed by Peter Loftus