Amidst the slew of mighty fine death metal releases in 2023, there were some killer debuts and plenty of albums well worth your attention, even if they didn’t feature heavily, or at all, during another epic Listurnalia campaign. One such album was the debut LP from up-and-coming Minnesota death dealers Begravement and their potential packed Horrific Illusions Beckon album. And though it didn’t quite crack my own end-of-year list, I certainly spent lots of time jamming Horrific Illusions Beckon. In a crowded modern death metal field Begravement’s lively formula features the distinct stench of the classic Florida death metal scene from yesteryear, coupled with forward-thinking arrangements, progressive flourishes and an aggressive, thrashy bent. In what we hope will be an equally robust year of death metal in 2024, let’s explore the exciting depths and twists of Horrific Illusions Beckon.
Begravement offer a busy, multifaceted sound that touches on numerous styles and influences within the broader death genre. Creating a colorful, technical and wildly adventurous offering that nonetheless doesn’t forget to have fun, Begravement unleash an abundance of fiery, headbangabale riffs and furious thrashy death salvos. There are knotty technical and proggy nods to Death and Atheist, the gnarled thrashy precision of Vader and The Chasm, and hints of modern trailblazers Horrendous. Throw in the prominent thrash influence, experimental touches and hints of smooth melodeath elements and you are left with a memorable and versatile package. Whether exploring more progressive, complex and adventurous pastures (“Valley of Everlasting Darkness,” “Intergalactic Espionage,” epic closer ‘Return to Planet Earth”), ripping, though bouncier melodic territories (“Anaphylaxis” and “Scarabs Beneath the Flesh”) or straight up proggy, death ragers (“A Horrific Illusion,” “Desecration of the Meek”), Begravement execute swiftly and thrust their rabidly aggressive stylings to the forefront.
Musically the four-piece are an accomplished bunch, collectively flexing their instrumental muscles, without letting shit get too cutsie or self-indulgent. Ezra Blumenfeld (also on vocals) and Owen Hiber share a deep appreciation for death metal’s long and varied history, slamming out a dexterous mix of slash-and-burn death-thrash riffs, striking melodic leads, and brooding, progressive turns and explorations. Grady Westling attacks his kit with feisty energy, comfortably shifting modes of speed and rhythm with the ever-shifting dynamics of the music, while extra praise is warranted for the skillfully performed melodic counterpoint of Matt Schrampfer’s fretless bass. Blumenfeld handles lead vocals, with his mid-ranged, well-enunciated and deceptively dynamic rasps and growls fitting the vibe well, though I occasionally crave a little more guttural heft.
All this impressive musicianship would count for little without decent songs, and thankfully Begravement do not disappoint in the songwriting department. This is a collection of finely crafted and diverse compositions, though at 54 minutes there is some bloat present, indicating a future need to perhaps tighten up on the editing front. Overall, for all the many positive traits, strengths and potential packed into Begravement’s debut, the pleasing takeaway is that this is early days and the prospect of Begravement improving and building on the sturdy frameworks and foundations they have created here stirs up excitement for where they head next. In the meantime, Horrific Illusions Beckon is an extremely accomplished, borderline great album for an exciting death metal act on the rise. A little more refinement of their songwriting abilities and tighter editing will hopefully see Begravement reap greater rewards on their next album.
Tracks to Check Out: ”Anaphylaxis,” “Valley of Everlasting Darkness,” “Intergalactic Espionage”.
