
Święta Krew
(Godz Ov War Productions)
33:40min
Formed in Warsaw in 2006, SACROFUCK has steadily refined their sound over the years into a punishing blend of Death Metal, Grindcore and Hardcore. Three demos and one split bearing the sign of their early sound structures. However, their 2017 line-up change marked a turning point where guitarists Paplakathor and Violator began sculpting tighter, more atmospheric compositions. The debut album, which was released almost five years ago, didn’t materialize enough to spread the name of SACROFUCK. Subsequent demos showed promise, though 2020’s “Primitive Fuck” best demonstrated their current twisted style. Now the second full-length “Święta Krew” sees the poles taking their craft to a new level. Across ten gruesome tracks, they unleash a non-stop barrage of deadly and grindy assault. It’s pretty claustrophobic to absorb, as throughout the record length it doesn’t give too many moments to rest or catch a breath of air. Even in the slower parts, they very effectively hold the listener by the bits and suffocate with massive riffing. Certainly, their musicianship becomes tight and punishing throughout, anchored by the hammering drumming. The vocals are also not monotonous, puking with extraordinary aggression in various shades. Occasional Swedish style D-beats with rhythmic hitting of strings and Grindcore tinged tempo shifts added variety without compromising the brutal intensity. Lyrical themes of inner illness, killing and depravity further enhance the disturbance and the envisioned atmosphere. However, it’s just don’t merely bludgeon the listener – their songwriting displays maturity. Standouts like ‘Trumna’, ‘Niech Płynie Krew’, ‘Czarnego Kozła Śmierć’ and ‘Brama Snów’ balance memorable hooks with extremely energetic swings, ensuring each track leaves its mark. While not the most technically proficient Death metal, SACROFUCK makes up for it with attitude and atmosphere. Their primal approach recalls formative acts like TERRORIZER and early ATROCITY. The production is rough yet crisp, putting the focus on the performances. Where past material could feel one-dimensional to many onlookers, “Święta Krew” has its progression, maintains a blood-soaked intensity while expanding its sound. It didn’t invent new things, but as a relentlessly brutal slice of old school Death Grind, it succeeds. For those seeking filthy, no-nonsense extremity, SACROFUCK’s commitment to darkness and depravity makes for thirty thrilling minutes of aural violence. Surely the fans of classic ’90s Death should find much to admire in SACROFUCK’s pummelling homage to the genre’s heaviest traditions. To find out more about the band and label, visit www.facebook.com/sacrofakk, www.facebook.com/godzovwar.
Randolph Whateley