Started back in 1989, ANTROPOMORPHIA is basically a Dutch Extreme Metal powerhouse. With their debut released in 1998 and after a 12 year hiatus, they have put out four more excellent albums, with “Devoid Of Light” being their sixth, and in my humble opinion, best so far. This brand of music has a really present ’90s feel with a modern production, without being overproduced or plastic. Sure, there are a bunch of influences present in their music, specially from some of their countrymates GOREFEST and maybe some DISSECT, but they also have an early UK Death Metal sound that blends some harmonic parts with a highly technical edge and even some Black Metal eerie melodies. This results in an identity and sound that has spanned for 30+ years. The band features two of the original members, drummer Marco Stubbe and guitarist / vocalist Ferry Damen. The line-up is completed with bassist Jos van den Brand (who is also a member of ACROSTICHON) and guitarists Jeroen Pleunis (ex-VILLAINY). These four guys know exactly what they want to play and how to perform it. Memorable riffs mixed with slow pounding segments and high speed parts make up a collection of nine songs that pumme through the listener’s brain in the best possible way. I really like how they introduce the variations and tempo changes without losing their direction. Stubbe’s drum work is stellar, using detailed double bass and interesting fills that provides an excellent support to van den Brand’s banging bass lines. On top of that, both Damen and Pleunis, offer a plethora of memorable riffs that give these songs a much welcomed punch, including some pretty tasteful leads. And the vocals are huge, deep and pissed off, just like they were meant to be. Production wise, as stated above, “Devoid Of Light” has a modern sound, but it has a really organic sound, with that ever present ’90s vibe. The mix is clear, tight and profound with the bass and drums taking front and center to the wide variety of riffs, melodies and harmonies all rolled up into songs that come at you like a ton of bricks. The master is also dynamic, which definitely help the overall gigantic atmosphere. “Devoid Of Light” is the perfect example of great classic Death Metal with a modern twist, which prevents it from feeling stale or too polished. Every element comes together to create an amazing listening experience for any and all fans of this kind of music. Here is where the experience of the ban shines through, putting forward a hell of an album. I cannot recommend this one enough. Support the band here: www.facebook.com/antropomorphia. And get their album from their label here: www.facebook.com/testimonyrecords