Review by Adam on December 22, 2001.

Neuraxis just may be the truest form of melodic death metal out there right now. Starting off as your pretty standard death metal band, these guys have really matured for their latest release. Adding rock elements and melodic flourishes to their extreme sound, these guys have created something to call their own. Therefore, this raw music has the ability the reach out to fans of thrash, death, melodic death and even grind.

First off praises should be given to the overall production of the record. The sound on this cd enables one to hear each instrument perfectly. Vocalist Ian Campbell has a pretty wide range going from high screams to deeper death vocals seamlessly. Guitarist and backing vocalist Steven Henry brings his style to the forefront with some interesting wah effects and classical guitar. His guttural grind growls balance with the intense music very nicely. Second guitarist Robin Milley adds his own style to the mix as well. Together, the guitarists really show their range with the acoustic instrumental track entitled Forlorn. Bassist Yen Thiel’s talents are also able to shine through the crystal clear production as well as the slick speed and technicality of drummer Alexandre Erian.

Musically, this cd is a world away from other generic death metals coming out. These guys have moved past the gore and the grind to uncover a brutal yet catchy approach to the death metal sound. Songs like Link and Unite pummel you with terrorizing riffs and extremely intense vocals, yet move you with their amazing groove and melodic harmonies. The band even give grind fans a reason to salivate with their 40 sec screech and grind war cry The Drop.

One might first be turned off, however, due to the actual running time for this particular disc. At a mere 24 minutes, this cd may appear more like an attempt at an e.p. Yet if one slides the disc into their computer they will find a whole cd left of multimedia extras. A whole website interface awaits you on your pc with all the bands past songs in mp3 format, videos (some of which you must find on your own), tons of pictures, information, a discography, and a biography. The mp3s give you an idea of just how much these guys have really grown and the videos give you a glorious look into the insanity that takes place at a Neuraxis concert.

All in all the music is a huge step up from many of their unoriginal counterparts and shows that there is still some life left in the realm of death metal. However, the short running time of the album’s material leaves the listener wanting more. Therefore, I personally cannot wait to hear more from these guys. There sound is as infectious as it is undeniably brutal. I recommend this cd to fans of death, grind, melodic death, and extreme music in general. This is one of the most promising acts of the year; seek these guys out!

Bottom Line: If you like your metal extreme yet melodic, then be sure to check these guys out!

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Originality: 9
Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Production: 9
Overall: 8

Rating: 8.2 out of 10