Subtera “Apocalypsed” CD

I hadn't heard anything from Subtera (Brazil) since their debut CD, "Discord" (which was released in 2001, though I didn't hear it until around 2003), which was an album that I honestly didn't care for very much. But having released the "Nothing and Death" album somewhere in between, they've come a long way in the five years since that debut, and I'm pleased to report that their most recent third full-length, "Apocalypsed" (self-released by the band on their own Dezerto Music label), is actually quite good. They've streamlined their approach to become far more focused and consistent, and in a way their current sound sort of defies categorization beyond simply being "metal", because they're using a lot of grinding blastbeats while the guitars tend to be more midpaced and centered around pounding rhythms that accentuate the gruff vocal shouts, so it doesn't really sound like grindcore very often. It's the drumming that really drives the majority of the speed of the material, which is sort of an interesting contrast since the guitars and vocals rarely feel as fast as the percussion sans a couple of thrashier moments here and there.

This record also boasts a much better recording than their debut, which is a very good thing. They're a trio, so there's some good breathing room in the mix, and since everything was recorded and mixed entirely analog the sound is warm and efficient overall. I wouldn't mind hearing a little more bass in the core of the mix, though! Hell, even the cover art looks nicer this time, so it's an all around improvement over their early years, and that's always a good sign. I definitely think the more cohesive approach has paid off big time in songs like the title track, which is probably the most powerfully promising piece of work herein.

Subtera "Apocalypsed"
Subtera "Deadly Medicine"

I wish I could provide a little more background information on these guys but their website is currently going through redevelopments so there's not a ton of information out there at the moment. I imagine this CD's going to be relatively hard to find outside of Brazil, so I'd suggest contacting the band directly if you're interested in getting your hands on this one. I believe their first two CD's are basically out of print at the moment, so I imagine this one's on its way as well. I know these guys are looking for labels to work with outside of Brazil, so if anyone's interested get in touch with them for that as well!