Bonebreaking riffs, decimating drums, and dreamlike menace…
Review by Jason Guest
Release date: 22 December 2014
The haunting title track that opens this four-track debut demo from Ireland’s Vircolac (“werewolf” in Romanian) is a harrowing introduction to the violence and savagery that waits within. Fetid and fucking ugly, an eruption of bonebreaking riffs, decimating drums, and echo-laced vocals that vomit their venom is juxtaposed with sinister and chillingly atmospheric passages that are penetrating and persistent. With enough nail-knuckled chord progressions and rapid-fire riffs in abundance, Vircolac enhance this already devastating havoc with melodic passages that while melodic are equally menacing in their dreamlike ambience. There’s a deep shadow hanging over every aspect of this incredible debut demo. Be it a portent, what’s to come will be outstanding.
9 out of 10
Track Listing:
- Codex Perfida
- Confession
- The Worm Turns
- Effigy