LIK’s "Necro": A Deep Dive into the Swedish Death Metal Revival

Swedish death metal has long been a genre that evokes both nostalgia and excitement among fans. With its roots tracing back to the early 1990s, bands like Entombed and Dismember have set a high bar for aggression and innovation. Enter LIK, a band that has emerged from this rich musical heritage, bringing their own flavor to the table. After a five-year hiatus since their last album, Misanthropic Breed, LIK returns with their fourth studio album, Necro, a record that promises to deliver the raw energy and intensity that fans crave.

The Opening Assault: “Deceased”

The album kicks off with “Deceased,” a track that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. Drawing heavily from the classic HM2 sound that defined the genre, this opener feels like a long-lost gem from the early days of Swedish death metal. The relentless pace and heavy riffs are sure to resonate with fans of the genre, making it a fitting introduction to the album.

Momentum and Groove: “War Praise” and “They”

Following the explosive opener, LIK maintains their momentum with “War Praise.” This track stands out due to its lead guitar work, which adds an epic and groovy vibe to the mix. The band’s ability to blend speed with melody is evident here, showcasing their musical prowess. The groove continues with “They,” which features a punchy guitar solo that elevates the listening experience, making it a fun and engaging track.

Filthy and Fast: “Worms Inside”

As the album progresses, LIK doesn’t shy away from delivering a full-frontal assault with “Worms Inside.” This track is a filthy, high-octane piece that exemplifies the band’s aggressive style. It’s a standout moment on the album, likely to become a favorite among fans who appreciate the raw energy that LIK consistently brings to their music.

Mid-Paced Mastery: “Morgue Rat”

Transitioning to a more mid-paced style, “Morgue Rat” allows the bassist to shine, particularly in the intro. The addition of guest vocals from Linnea Landstedt of Ice Age and Tyranex adds a layer of depth to the track, making it a unique entry on the album. This collaboration enhances the overall atmosphere, showcasing LIK’s willingness to experiment while staying true to their roots.

Rage and Intensity: “Shred into Pieces” and “In Ruins”

The intensity ramps up again with “Shred into Pieces,” a short but furious track that encapsulates the band’s rage-driven sound. The additional guitar solo here is a welcome touch, amplifying the track’s aggressive nature. Following this, “In Ruins” opens with a captivating lead guitar intro, further emphasizing LIK’s Entombed-inspired style. Although the cameo from Nick Holmes of Paradise Lost is brief, it adds an interesting twist to the song.

Subtle Innovations: “The Stockholm Massacre”

One of the most notable aspects of Necro is LIK’s ability to incorporate subtle innovations into their sound without straying too far from their established style. “The Stockholm Massacre” is a prime example, featuring a grizzly tone that aligns perfectly with the song’s lyrical themes. This track not only showcases the band’s musical evolution but also pays homage to their heritage.

A Favorite Track: “Fields of Death”

“Fields of Death” emerges as a standout track on the album, blending vocal aggression with chaotic guitar work. It’s a riotous piece that feels reminiscent of their debut album, Mass Funeral Evocation, which many fans still regard as their best work. This track encapsulates everything that makes LIK a formidable force in the Swedish death metal scene.

A Surprising Closer: “Rotten Inferno”

Wrapping up the album is “Rotten Inferno,” a track that diverges from LIK’s typical sound. Drawing inspiration from the Mental Funeral-era of Autopsy, this song offers a refreshing change of pace. While it may be an unusual direction for the band, it serves as a fitting conclusion to the album, leaving listeners intrigued and satisfied.

Overall Impressions

Necro is another solid entry in LIK’s discography, though it may not eclipse their debut or Misanthropic Breed. For fans familiar with their previous work, this album delivers more of the same aggressive, straightforward Swedish death metal that they’ve come to expect. Tomas Åkvik’s vocals are particularly noteworthy, showcasing a range of rage and aggression that complements the band’s sound perfectly.

While Necro may not revolutionize the genre, it avoids the pitfalls of mediocrity that many bands face. Instead, LIK has crafted an album that feels both comforting and invigorating, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking a genuine Swedish death metal experience.

Necro releases April 18 via Metal Blade Records.