Embers in the Spiritless Void Album Review

From the outset In Dread Response’s second album, Embers in the Spiritless Void, lays down the gauntlet as an unrelenting and epic release. Musically comparable to international bands like Machine Head and Lamb of God, while defining their sound with a new level of creativity, In Dread Response builds on the theme of vengeful anger that is the basis of all great thrash, doom and melodic death metal.

Particularly effective in creating that ferocity is vocalist Sean O’Kane Connolly; with understated vocal accompaniment his aggressive and powerful delivery is the epitome of burning rage, unrelenting in its quest for satiation. Obviously this release is not for the faint hearted.

Building further on the dramatic darkness, guitarists Trajan Schwencke and Ross McDougall make beautifully ominous sounds with meticulous arrangements and perfect melodic counterpoint. Although slightly let down by American styled solos, the eternal nature of their cohesive method and a largely unmatched technical proficiency is a joy to behold. These guys have obviously done their homework and it shows.

It’s hard to describe the rhythm section of In Dread Response without resorting to the kind of obscenities shouted from the mosh pit; in particular Corey Friedlander’s excellent drumming is accurate and solid with outstanding blast beats that perfectly interlock Steve Boag’s bass lines. It’s fucking awesome!

The second track, Through Chasms and track five, Apophis, are perhaps the best examples of potent and precise musicianship you could ever wish for. Also with similarities to metal gods Emperor and Immortal, In Dread Response has mastered a technique well beyond their years, encompassing many metal styles into an original and well produced masterpiece. Quality mixing means digital effects are minimal, which will translate well into live shows being equally out of this world!

Embers in the Spiritless Void is undoubtedly one of the best heavy metal releases ever to come out of New Zealand.