Primordial Domination

"Primordial Domination", which is the closure of a slightly less exciting period from the Incantation discography. However, as I mentioned in previous reviews, it does not mean that I am talking about something worse or not suitable for comparing with older recordings of this band. Inaccuracies do appear in the aspect of the cover art (very mediocre), but besides? There are no reasons to criticize "Primordial..." as a whole! And this despite the fact that this lp - like the three previous ones - does not arouse as much emotions as one would expect from the Americans.

To put it simply, "Primordial Domination" is a continuation and classic - in this formula - expansion of the previous album. The line-up recording "Decimate Christendom" was repeated, the general style (the one a bit more "toned down"), partly the sound, even some disadvantages. Fortunately, the feeling of deja vù is not particularly irritating here. The band operates a bit differently with heaviness, melodies, accents or proportions between faster paces and slowing down, although again, without going crazy/drastic deviations. In fact, the problem only arises when you need to point out some highlights and describe these songs more broadly. Because I can say "The Stench Of Crucifixion", "The Fallen Priest" or "Lead To Desolation", but honestly, it doesn't make much sense - I would have to refer to the content from previous reviews. The most important thing is that the whole cd is very consistent, sticks to a similar riffing and paces and fits well into the dingy death/doom stylistics. What's the best, despite some redundancy, "Primordial..." is great to listen to and it has mostly positive feelings - and that's a lot for an allegedly derivative album.

So albums like "Primordial Domination" show that you don't have to change your style risky and how to keep a meaningful, oldschool level. It's enough to use older patents "with taste", know moderation in this type of solutions and do it into solid songs. In my opinion, on "Primordial..." this tactic worked.

Originally on: https://subiektywnymetal.blogspot.com/2021/09/incantation-primordial-domination-2006.html

Incantation had lost some of their edge since the beginning of the millennia, but it took them two records to straight things up again, the way they know best. Primordial Domination introduces straightforward, old school death metal. John has indeed perfected his vocals. His agonizing screams are a tremendous boost to the overall sound, complemented by mesmerizing riffs and drumming. So I would say it’s a decent comeback, but an improvement from the last two records.

With an even cleaner production than before, the album starts with the prelude title track to kick things off heavily. The guitar riff in the opening sounds a bit like Black Sabbath‘s... Black Sabbath, gradually building up to the opening song. You could say The Fallen Priest is a banger. Merely angry and wants you to start smashing things into pieces. Everything about this song brings the original sound back. Dissolute Rule / Begin Apocalypse is one of the darker and heavier songs just from the main speedy riff, with a touch of melodies and more cymbal-orientated drumming.

Though I appreciate the writing, songs like Hailed Babylon and God Conquered haven’t caught my attention like others have. Hailed Babylon sounds impressive when it comes to the riffs and guitar solo, and how it maintains brutality. But I couldn’t enjoy it thoroughly. Regardless, it’s a great song. The Stench of Crucifixion‘s highlight is John’s screaming in the bridge. The bass is also not so bad towards the outro, but just a repetitive song which shows they stretched. The same goes for God Conquered, which is like the song Feeble Existence from the previous record. It started well, but it has a long outro.

So as I mentioned above, it’s a decent record but showcased a lot of improvements. They stretched some songs, but at least others have given back for that time. Not that it’s new or anything, but the band will record even shorter songs than the ones you’ve already heard, and the good thing about them is that they get the job done. History suggests they’ve always got it. However, since The Infernal Storm, the longer songs are losing their charm, in what the band emphasis for the death/doom elements. I just hope this will open doors to more improvements and capitalize on the sound the band pioneered as they approach modernity. The best songs are The Fallen Priest, Dissolute Rule / Begin Apocalypse, and Doctrines of Reproach.

Incantation is a band that's always been known for integrity and consistence. Over the span of their near two decade career, the band has released seven full lengths, a few EPs, and done more touring than most bands old and new have ever done. In short, Incantation is probably the hardest working band in metal. So, has all that hard work paid off with their newest offering, "Primordial Domination"?

Just one listen will convince fans old and new that Incantation is still releasing killer material. This album features all the key ingredients to any Incantation album... unholy death metal riffs, trudging doom metal sections, pummelling scissor blast beats, astounding finger played bass work, and vocals spewing forth blasphemy. Yup, everything one would expect to hear in an Incantation album is here.

This album is essentially "Decimate Christendom Part 2", which in turn was "Blasphemy Part 2". The same line up is here as was on "Decimate Christendom". First, let's get into the song writing. The album opens up with an instrumental jam which turns out to be a good way to intro the album, something Incantation has never done to open up an album before. It reminds me of one of the endings to a song on "Blasphemy" where they just play some drawn out chords and build on it in signature Incantation style. The next song opens up with an incredibly memorable riff, and from there on in, it kicks some pretty heavy ass! There are quite a lot of great tracks on here, some feature more slower parts like "Dissolute Rule/Begin Apocalypse", where others like "Lead To Desolation" feature total ripping riffs that turn out to be really catchy. In fact, "Lead To Desolation" would probably make a great single, and is much in the same vein as the song "Dying Divinity" from the last album.

John McEntee handles vocals once again, and while his stamina appears to be improved from the previous album, the pitch of his voice appears to be a bit higher. Of course, this is no real problem as it sounds much like any Incantation vocalist after Craig Pillard was in the band. I should also comment on Joe Lombard's playing on this album, as it is as tight as ever. It is a real shame he is no longer with the band, as he seemed to be an active part of the lyrical aspect as well as playing a role in the song writing department. His lyrics are much like McEntee's: short, descriptive, and sweet. Kyle Severn's blasting is as sharp as ever, and McEntee's riffs are the same as always: diminished, evil, and twisted! His lead playing is also a treat to hear, as he ends up pulling off some very effective work.

The production on the album is very fitting. Everything can be heard clear without being overdone at all. In fact, it sounds like the recording was relatively simple. No triggers, no bullshit, you know these guys played these songs with a lot of energy. A definite plus, and what one would expect from Incantation. The production is on par with the last few albums for sure.

There is nothing that Incantation can do wrong. From their full on death metal speed, to their doom sections, to the overall arrangements of the songs, this is an excellent record. This won't win them any new fans, but it certainly won't make them loose any. If you've liked any of their albums since "Diabolical Conquest", this album will click instantly. It is evident that Incantation will never release a bad album.