Review by Jeger on May 31, 2025.

As the international Extreme Metal scene's artists and bands scramble to realize something unique, anything to set their art apart from all of the drivel out there, who would've known that the answer could lie within something familiar? Alice In Chains ring a bell? Crowbar? Type O? Yes, for NYC's Blood Vulture, the sum of these three bands are what may solve a most baffling equation. Gothic Sludge? Sure, let's give it a whirl.

As someone who grew up in the '90's, naturally, I was quite fond of the decade's renowned Grunge/Alternative Metal movement: Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and the aforementioned Alice In Chains whose bitter dirges of angst provided some comfort for me as I navigated the bog of my own depression. Oh, what a heroin addict I would've been had I been old enough, but for me, smoking Mexican brick weed and snorting Ritalin was the way! Stoned and tweaking the days away to the sound of legendary music created by Layne Staley, Chris Cornell and Kurt Cobain. In my early 20's, I would embrace acts like the aforementioned Crowbar and Type O Negative. I never thought I'd ever hear a band that would incorporate all of these influences into their sound until now. On June 27, Blood Vulture will release Die Close via Pure Noise Records.

A Vampire's lament, the Blood Vulture's bitter story unfolding to memory-rousing vocals, crushing riffs and ominous melodies. Remember that soulful, nasally drawl? I know you remember the hopelessness of the music that transpired during that particular decade. And also, you do recall its legendary Goth scene. How could you not? Songs from "Die Close" like "An Embrace In The Flood" and "A Dream About Starving To Death" - a Jerry Cantrell wet dream: the former and the latter hit like a "Dirt" deep cut, only ten times heavier, as Kirk Windstein-heralding riffs provide some hearty depth for the experience. Guest appearances on the album include Guitarist, Jade Puget, of AFI in "Grey Mourning", Singer/Pianist, Kristin Hayter, in "Entwined" and Vocalist, Brian Fair, of Shadows Fall in "Burn For It". Even considering these fine contributions, Die Close is a convoluted affair. Oh, how I yearn for those familiar hooks and reciprocating melodies of old. Very simply put, Blood Vulture visionary, Jordan Olds is overreaching.

Despite what feels like a trying-to-hard record, if you sort through all of the filler, you'll discover impassioned leads, heartfelt vocal contributions and some nice rhythmic parts that call you back, even if it's only for one more spin. Save something for the next record, guys. Like an enthused youth who just wants to pack every great idea he can think of into one album is Olds. I admire the passion, but discipline and fundamentals are also important. Reined in a bit, this could've been a perfect album.

Die Close does transport you back to 1996, but the portal through history is entangled with parts that you kind of wish weren't there. Nonetheless, a valiant effort. If it's epic nostalgia you're searching for then look no further, but enthusiasts who appreciate a little more tact will likely hit the dreaded stop button halfway through. However, I do appreciate the memories that this record has unearthed. I admire the vision and most certainly the talents of all artist's involved. A fun album despite its overwhelmingly marbled inner workings.

Rating: 7 out of 10