Another review I've written for a very deserving band --Ascended from Finland. A Kick ass band that will surely PUNISH you ha ha...!!!
Fascination with the darker side of life has always been a bit intriguing as well as a bit scary. Rituals, Summoning, Magic Spells, Dark Art, are brought to life by the demo put forth by 'Ascended', a noticeable band from Finland. A land from where emerged the heavy weights such as Demilich, Demigod, Adramelech, Skepticism, Abhorrence and till date continue to be the strong roots of several young bands; such as Ascended. The influence here is clearly present, compiling song structures that are often liberal in nature and seldom, yet indeed march beyond the compositional excellence of their forefathers, progressing and regressing to their musical descendants. The compositions are perfectly leashed by the two adept guitarists (Lautamäki and Vainio, lead and rhythm respectively) harnessing a somber and melancholy atmosphere. With spontaneously increasing tempos to the sudden decrement in the pace of the songs, equals the staple variations that are frequently observed on most of their tracks.
The band operates with a rhythm and a lead guitar, certainly uncommon for a death metal band. Usually, most of the death metal outfits prefer a twin-lead attack with intricate solos that fluently trades off with each other. Having a similar, yet not the exact sound as the US band Mythic; a strong resemblance upon an initial listen, one may try to match up the similar character (sound/riffs) traits of Ascended and Mythic; alike in nature, possessing musical entities from the doom-sphere that death metal dwells in.
The grumbles of Tommi Sookari are simply more than fitting for the musical style adopted by the band. The dry and deep toned growls of Tommi, occasionally are accompanied with well balanced modulations of high pitched screams and shrieks. Sookari's slightly different perspective of vocalizing is well noted on this demo as well as on the later EP (Temple of Dark Offerings), his voice echoes through the lands unknown and beyond, heard only to the undead and are answering his call, summoning creatures feared by the living that hurdle for a ritual soon to be commenced at dawn. The prominently heavy bass is greatly experienced throughout the demo. Tuomas Koski does a decent job of playing the bass, in spite the production being not that standard here. (Note:- This is a self-produced demo by the band)
And lastly the drums and the drummer. Nothing extraordinary, just the usual drumming, following the direction of the rest of the music, but, in a more assertive manner through the sharp cymbal sound and through the pounding of the kick-drums. Does what is required and self-improvises when the need arises. Sami Saarhelo is the man behind the kit and trust me he has his particular way of drumming which blends in flawlessly.
Like a restless soul that longs for freedom, Ascended longs for their signature sound and have been quite successful with their purpose. The sound particularly on this demo (of 4 tracks) has established the fact that these 'Finnish' souls have found their direction and are willing to embark upon a journey deep into the bowels of Death Metal which in their future full-length releases will be more evident (that I am very sure of). As for now this Demo and their latest EP are recommended for all DM fans... everywhere!
