A Bitter Twist Of Fate
(Vic Records)
20:52min
I have always considered EXPULSION as one criminally underrated band. And although they went on to release two albums, these three songs showed the start of a stylistic shift towards Doom / Death Metal. Now, courtesy of the fine Dutch label Vic Records, we now get not only the original three track EP but also a bonus track off the “History Of Things To Come” 1994 compilation CD. And I could not be more thankful, since “A Bitter Twist Of Fate” was only released independently by the band back in 1993 with a limited number of copies. The band shared two members with TIAMAT and TREBLINKA (Andres Holmberg and Stefan Lagergren), so it would be irrational not to say that these bands also shared some similarities. Luckily, these were superficial and each band eventually developed their own identity. EXPULSION showed a huge improvement coming off their second demo tape onto this EP, which they infused with melodic arrangements and a gloomy atmosphere but keeping all the heavy and thick Death Metal sound intact. Stefan and Chris’ guitar work combines nicely flowing melodic and harmonic lines with heavy tremolo and palm muted riffs. Anders’ intricate bass lines tightly bond the guitar work with Calle’s interesting drum patterns and fills. Fredrik’s vocals top it off with a hefty mid / low growl. The mix is clear, leaving a lot of space to every instrument. The guitars have their own place on the treble side of things. They are not as thick sounding as one would assume in this style of music. That leaves the bass carrying all the bottom end with a huge tone with the aid of the pounding, yet natural sounding drums. The overall production values add a really raw edge to an otherwise elegant (so to speak) ambience. And due to the time this was recorded, the mastering is not bricked at all and makes for a really dynamic and lively listening experience with lots of different moods and throughout this recording. Adding more value to the whole package, the booklet contains liner notes, rare pictures and has the original artwork restored. This is one of those hidden gems that were overshadowed at the time. Got get this now before it is sold out (again). Info on the band here: www.facebook.com/expulsion1989. And get this CD from the label here: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063485232579
Alfonso Perez