Neolith – I am the Way
Established Polish metal band Neolith return with their 5th studio album, “I am the Way”. Having been in existence since 1991, Neolith were very much part of the original Polish death/black metal scene of the early ‘90s.
As such, the new release in many ways is as you may expect. Albeit vocally the band are reminiscent of death metal growls from Deicide and such like, rather than the more high pitch wailings of other European black metal.
Although in respect to Neolith’s back-catalogue, the latest album is more direct. There’s a clear structure to the tracks on offer, yet without digressing from the death metal local fans will know and love. With a slight change in line-up too, Daniel Rutkowski makes his debut on drums, bringing with him a new lease of life to the group.
Neolith – “I Am The Way”
Neolith – Review
Production-wise the mix on “I am the Way” is also pretty solid. The right balance between coming close to damaging your speakers, along with slightly muddy levels recreating the DIY approach of early 90’s thrash.
The initial solo on the title track, for example, could easily be from the fingertips of early Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman of Slayer. Whereas the opening track “The Abu Hymn” is somewhat sparse by comparison, yet manages to leave you feeling slightly unhinged.
Meanwhile, if it wasn’t for the occasional drum fill on songs such as “Irarazakku” you’d think the rhythm section had been pre-programmed. Endless bass drums belted out at a frantic pace, where beats per minute would break the counter.
In some ways “I am the Way” is just another black/death metal album from mainland Europe. Yet as it comes from one of the longstanding Polish bands, Neolith stand out against the rest. In that, it’s a CD that deserves pride of place, with the volume cranked up enough to scare the neighbours.
