This is my first time listening to Finland’s CONCRETE ICON. Shame on me since they have put out two demos, two EPs and two albums before “Voracious Streams”, their latest full length released by the fine Spanish label Memento Mori. The band has had a bunch of line-up changes since their formation in 2007 with vocalist / guitarist Jaakko Peltonen remaining as the sole original member. But with the addition of drummer Andreas Kaarnimo and guitarist Markus Rakkolainen back in 2022 and bassist Henri in 2024, they have now an estable line-up and I hope it all works out, since these four guys know exactly what they are doing both style and performance wise. Graced with an amazing cover artwork by Juanjo Castellano, these eight songs (34 minutes) are as devastating as they are catchy. Sure, there is an undeniable Finnish influence. I mean, we all know that bands such as ADRAMELECH, DEMIGOD, ABHORRENCE and MYTHOS, just to name a few, established a trademark sound back in the ’90s: mostly mid-tempo, dense, dark and heavy as hell Death Metal with deep growling vocals. Well, this could very well describe “Voracious Streams”. But the band has found the way to take these influences and produce their own sound and style: raw and filthy yet intricate and detailed, with the help of a more modern and (dare I say) clearer production that doesn’t distract the listener from the oppressive atmosphere that CONCRETE IDOL creates. The mix is right in your face without being overwhelming. All instruments are well balanced, with the thick and crunchy guitar tone taking the spot right next to the vocals. The first thing I want to highlight here is Henri’s bass performance. It is well known that the bass guitar is the foundation of any band. And “Voracious Streams” has a great mix of solid and complex bass lines which are the perfect match for Jake and Makk’s memorable riffs and eerie leads. This is another detail that I liked a lot, since the lead work is not your usual shred fest. It seems really well thought. The intensity of the guitars and bass equals the compelling drumwork by Andreas, who knows when to take a step back and let the songs breathe but also when to step on it and move all around his kit with an amazing sense of timing and groove. Last but not least, Jake’s deep growls (and occasional high pitched screams) tighten up everything. Now, I feel the mastering is a bit bricked for my taste. In my humble opinion, this style of music will always benefit from dynamics. Especially in this case, since “Voracious Streams” is an album full of constant variations, tempo changes and moods. So yes, I am not a fan of modern day mastering. But it has become a standard, whether I like it or not. End of rant. All in all, CONCRETE IDOL’s “Voracious Streams” is a tour de force on Death Metal done the Finnish way with their own twist. Huge and massive, yet catchy and identifiable. Any fan of extreme Metal should check this one out right away. I am sure that you won’t be disappointed. Support the band at www.facebook.com/concreteicon and get their album from their label www.facebook.com/memento.mori.label