For Whom the Bell Summons: A Deep Dive into Malthusian’s The Summoning Bell
For over a decade, Ireland’s Malthusian has carved a niche in the blackened death metal scene, known for their intense and consuming sound. The band, featuring members with a rich history in the metal genre—including stints with Altar of Plagues, Conan, Verminous Serpent, Grave Miasma, and Adorior—has returned with their second full-length album, The Summoning Bell. Following their 2018 debut, Across Death, and a split release with Suffering Hour in 2022, this album promises to push their sonic boundaries even further.
The Opening Notes
The album kicks off with a three-minute intro titled “Isolation.” While it sets a tone of foreboding, many listeners might find it excessive and somewhat drawn out. This lengthy introduction could be seen as a missed opportunity to build anticipation for the first proper track. However, once “Red, Waiting” bursts forth, the album truly ignites. This track showcases a blistering guitar solo and relentless blast beats, embodying the raw aggression that Malthusian is known for. The song’s dynamic shifts, particularly the transition to a slower, doom-laden section, highlight the band’s versatility and depth.
Aggression and Artistry
Following the explosive opener, “Between Dens and Ruins” continues the momentum with its aggressive riffs and tight instrumentation. The new bassist shines here, adding a fresh layer to the band’s sound. The title track, “The Summoning Bell,” expertly navigates between mid-paced grooves and frenetic bursts of speed, showcasing the band’s ability to blend different tempos seamlessly. The dissonant riffs and punishing vocals create an atmosphere that is both consuming and immersive.
Interludes and Innovations
The album features another interlude, “The Onset of the Death of Man,” which introduces a more depressive soundscape. Unlike the intro, this piece is concise and effectively sets the stage for the subsequent track, “Eroded into Superstition.” This song stands out with its strong riffs and an intriguing spoken word segment, adding a unique flavor to the album.
A Dissonant Journey
Malthusian’s sound is characterized by a dissonant and cavernous quality reminiscent of death metal heavyweights like Immolation and Dead Congregation. This distinctive style, combined with elements of doom, creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both oppressive and engaging. The longest track, “Amongst the Swarms of Vermin,” exemplifies this with its punishing dissonance and varied vocal styles, including a particularly effective shriek that punctuates the track.
Closing the Experience
The closing track, “In Chaos, Exult,” begins with a mellow instrumental introduction before gradually returning to the album’s signature depressive atmosphere. This final piece encapsulates the journey of The Summoning Bell, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of unease and reflection.
A Unique Offering
Overall, The Summoning Bell is a compelling addition to Malthusian’s discography. The album successfully delivers an aggressive and dissonant sound while maintaining a murky, depressive atmosphere that sets it apart from other offerings in the blackened death genre. While the introductory track may feel unnecessary, the album grows stronger with each listen, revealing layers of complexity that invite deeper exploration. For fans of the genre, this album is a must-listen, showcasing Malthusian’s unique edge and artistic evolution.
The Summoning Bell is available now through Relapse Records, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its dark and intricate soundscape.
