I mentioned in a prior review how I thought a certain band had a bit too clean of production. Well, it’s safe to say CRYPTAL ECHOES nailed down the dirt and the grime in this, their first release. There is a level of dread and emotion in this demo. Granted, it’s not an upper echelon Doom Metal criteria… it is a demo and their first sonic representation for this Austrian (now) 3-piece, and there is plenty of dread, atmosphere and just pure heaviness on this. A plodding atmospheric Death Doom is the name of the game here. For the most part there are moments of a more Death Metal vibe and its associated speed, but it tends to become a bit muddy at times, and all the instrumentation gets lost and becomes a wall of noise. If they stay and stick to the more evocative and punchy mid-paced elements, that is where they make an impact. For me, I see that this makes more of a connection, and also it resonates with the listener and gives them those ASPHYX and a bit of CIANIDE vibes to lock onto. As I mentioned previously, this is the first demo release from them, and I feel they have the atmosphere and aura locked down; they may have to fine-tune a bit. For example, at times, the vocalist does these screams / yells that seem to be mixed louder than the overall sound presentation, and it can be quite jolting, especially for those with earphones. Not to be nitpicky, and I realize the emotion involved, but it can be a bit jarring. Also, I feel the power and emotion coming through with the slower, doomier elements; this is what grabs me, that is what works for them. Maybe have a better mixing presentation, or adjust their songwriting skills, learn to present the faster elements to an overall cohesive whole. So with these minor adjustments aside, I enjoyed this demo, and with the artwork and overall presentation. It makes me think back to those early days, searching and waiting to hear the latest and the unknown via tape trading or by purchase at your local record store. They have a good thing going, and they should persevere and also refine their craft and come out with all guns blazing with the next release. I’m here and anxious for that moment. https://cryptalechoes.bandcamp.com, www.facebook.com/morbidchapelrecords