In the world of extreme metal, where every band vies for attention in a sea of noise, Eaten By Sharks have crafted a record that is both refreshing and familiar. Their second LP, 'The Undertow of Hate', is a thrilling dive into the depths of technical death metal and deathcore, with a unique twist that sets them apart from the pack. While the band's name and album title might suggest a gimmicky approach, Eaten By Sharks have managed to create an album that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, without relying on irony or sarcasm.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'The Undertow of Hate' is the band's ability to blend the harsh, aggressive sound of death metal with a sense of melody and legibility. This is particularly evident in the vocals of Matt Sherriff, who delivers gnashing screams and deep lows with remarkable clarity. This approach is a refreshing change from the machine-gun vocals often heard in the genre, and it allows the band to create a sense of unity and synchronization within the music. The result is an album that is both enjoyable and easy to follow, with a strong sense of groove and rhythm that will have listeners headbanging and screaming along.
However, what truly sets 'The Undertow of Hate' apart is the band's ability to create a sense of depth and meaning within the music. While the album might not be groundbreaking or revolutionary, it is a solid and reliable record that showcases the band's skills and passion. The album's themes, which explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world, are both thought-provoking and relevant, and they are delivered with a sense of sincerity and honesty that is refreshing in a genre often driven by irony and sarcasm.
In my opinion, Eaten By Sharks have managed to create an album that is both entertaining and meaningful, with a unique twist that sets them apart from the pack. While the album might not be for everyone, it is a strong and reliable record that showcases the band's skills and passion. Personally, I think that 'The Undertow of Hate' is a must-listen for fans of extreme metal, and it is an album that will continue to grow on listeners with repeated exposure. So, if you're looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking album, 'The Undertow of Hate' is definitely worth a listen.
