Legendary bands CONVERGE and NAPALM DEATH have come together for a split release on Deathwish Inc.
Recorded as part of their new album sessions, CONVERGE offer up the blazing new song “No Light Escapes.” Also on the release, CONVERGE offer a “We Are the World” styled rendition of the influential ENTOMBED classic “Wolverine Blues.” Joining them in tribute is a number of friends including Tomas Lindberg (DISFEAR, AT THE GATES, LOCK UP), Aaron Turner (ISIS, OLD MAN GLOOM, SPLIT CRANIUM), Kevin Baker (APMD, THE HOPE CONSPIRACY), Brian Izzi (TRAP THEM), and more. A new CONVERGE album will surface later in 2012 on Epitaph/Deathwish Inc.
On the flip side, metal pioneers NAPALM DEATH offer up two new aural monsters. First, “Will By Mouth” erupts in classic grind fashion. Also on the release, NAPALM DEATH offer the slower and textural new song “No Impediment To Triumph (Bhopal)“. A deeply resonant number that lyrically sheds light on the horrific Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984.
While each THE GREAT DECEIVER album has always had a certain level of aggression, Life is Wasted on the Living is the band’s most aggressive and straight forward release to date. The somber moods have been set aside for hardcore/death metal fury. Thankfully, the great subtle guitar work that Kristian “Necrolord” Wahlin and Johan Osterberg used in DIABOLIQUE is still present. There is a nice use of layering of the guitars with each guitar often playing distinct parts. The band add in just enough substance and originality into their straight forward approach to avoid sounding generic. There’s also a healthy helping of melody included. At the heart of THE GREAT DECEIVER is the attitude and emotion involved, which are conveyed by vocalist Tomas Lindberg’s superb lyrics. Poignant, powerful, and point blank, his lyrics paint a dark, nihilist but accurate portrait of reality. Whether it’s looking within or looking out into society and humanity at large, there is despair, disgust, and disillusionment that hits deep. Overall, the songs are catchy and carry enough urgency and emotion to keep Life is Wasted on the Living flowing. At times, the vibe is so chaotic and claustrophobic but that is exactly what is intended. Those looking for something fresh and soulful coming from some of Gothenburg, Sweden’s most revered pioneers should immediately look to Life is Wasted on the Living. (Deathwish Inc.)