Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Convictors Envoys of Extinction Company: Independent Release: 2014 Genre: Death Reviewer: Greg Watson

Classic, well executed death metal

The story on German act Convictors is a very interesting one. Formed way back in 1986, the band released a demo and then disappeared. The band recorded another EP in 2009 and once again disappeared, this time due to differences in the musical direction of the band. Now the group has returned yet again and have finally issued their debut full length album, 'Envoys of Extinction'. Better late than never is what I have to say first. From the jump this album has a very old school feel, similar to old Cannibal Corpse, Morbid Angel and Vader. Full of heavy grooves, the album rips through nine tracks and leaves you in search of an ER to treat the multiple lacerations and general destruction your body has endured after listening to the record. Opening track "Preparedness 101" kicks in with a blistering guitar line and bombastic drums that are summarily rendered obsolete once the violently guttural vocals start. As the album continues the band shows that all the time off allowed them to really hone their skills and craft classic, well executed death metal songs. With most of the tracks checking in at around the four minute mark, the last full song clocks in at a staggering 13:52! With a beautiful acoustic intro, the song immediately launches into the frenzied sound that dominates the album. Then at six minutes in, all goes quiet. 3:28 seconds later, a demo recording or a live recording, I'm not sure which, begins and compared to the rest of the album, the production is god awful and very hard to listen to. The vocals are more thrash styled and it's really a poor way to end the record. Despite the end of the album kind of fizzling out, this one is a must have for old school Death Metal fans. Sure to bring back a feeling of nostalgia, Convictors deliver a solid debut and hopefully the follow up will come sooner than later!