Gruesome - Dimensions of Horror [Relapse Records - 2016]Death metal all-star team, Gruesome, are back on Relapse with Dimensions of Horror, their follow up to 2015's Savage Land. Continuing their Death inspired mayhem, Dimensions is six tracks of freshly played, throwback fury. Once again using Ed Repka artwork to complete the look,Gruesome's second release sells their passion for early death well through tight riffing and well constructed song writing. Short and sweet, Gruesome's Dimensions of Horror EP has all the characteristics that made Savage Land such an enjoyable piece of death metal mayhem. Basing their approach on well constructed songs and riffs over all out violence and speed for the sake of speed, Gruesome continues to impress listeners and dare them to leave their air guitars on their stands (you DO take proper care of your air instrument, don't you?). While not wildly far removed from Savage Lands, Dimensions stands on its own and shows a tight act increasing their togetherness and putting forth another great recording. Purposely sounding older in production, this EP hearkens back to Death's Scream Bloody Gore album. Thrashing, ripping, and pounding, each of the six tracks captures this classic vibe well, while adding enough of their own touch to make it stand on its own as a great album and not just aping Death's classic sound. Knowing Gruesome's M.O., one is pretty sure of what to expect on Dimensions of Horror. Their attention to detail is well done, and their song writing and skilled instrumentation help to make this EP a real treat for fans of classic death (and, classic Death). Anyone that enjoyed Savage Land should do themselves a favor and pick this one up, too. This is a really enjoyable band and I eagerly await their next release. Paul Casey
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