Just when you thought Mortification was on their last leg, they go and release their best album since Envision Evangeline. Many are calling it their finest release yet. I won't go that far, as I'm a huge fan of their old death metal releases, but this is definitely an improved Mortification. Musically, the band takes a somewhat heavier direction than their three previous albums. One of the biggest surprises is the addition of two new guitarists, Jeff Lewis and Mick Jelinic. These two do a superb job, as this disc is chock full of killer guitar work. Steve's vocals are still a little bit of a down point for me as I'm not a huge fan of his current vocal style. At times he sounds almost bored, but then again, at times he sounds improved. On the song "Apocalyptic Terror" he reverts back to the full-on death vocals. This song is definitely the highlight for me with the death vocals, brutally fast sound, and even some blasting. The other standout cut is the opener "Web of Fire." One problem I have with a couple of the songs, though, is that the choruses are very repetitive, but this is really only a problem on a few tracks.
Lyrically, the band is as bold as you would expect, with fist-pumping, evangelistic metal lyrics. Unfortunately, some of these lyrics border on the cheesy side. The production and packaging on the album is very professionally done. I have mixed feelings about the cover artwork though. It's well done, but not something that I would see the secular crowd taking too seriously. Speaking of the secular crowd, I doubt this album will make too big of an impact with new listeners, but with established Mortification fans it's sure to please.
Despite some up and down years and a lot of criticism for style changes, this band still continues to crank out the metal. This album has really grown on me and for the first time in about six or seven years I'm actually looking forward to the next Mortification album.
Editors' ratings — Doug 3.5/5, Lonny 3/5
Other coverage for this album
Art for the Ears 2002Reviewed by Marco PovervestIt's been a long time since Mortification had an album without an official title track. The omission of a song called Relentless is clear, yet Priests Of The Underground has that ruthless word in the chorus. Why this change of the unwritten policy? It's not the only change. Mortification has a new lineup after the departure of Lincoln Bowen. He's replaced by Jeff Lewis from Canada, and Mick…Similar sounding releases
1997Living SacrificeReborn
2004JosiahVerona
1998ExtolBurial
2005UnearthOur Days of Eulogy
1999Edge of MortalityWorld Hate
2005Pale HorseUntil the Last Seal Is Opened...More from Mortification
1994Grind Planets (Video)
1996The Best Of... Five Years
1991Mortification
1996EnVision EvAngelene
1994Blood World
1993Live Planetarium
