Stench — Venture

Swedish death metal. That term conjures up so many great acts and an instantly recognizable sound. Bands like Entombed and Dismember paved the way for their countrymen while becoming almost household names (y'know, somewhere, I guess...Sweden?). The HM-3 pedal that defined their sound was prevalent in many other acts, and was near inescapable when turning on the newest Swedish death. As enjoyable as that sound is, you can only hear it so much before it gets a bit tiresome. Thankfully, bands like Stench recognized this as well. This Swedish trio's second album, Venture, comes to us via Agonia Records. Combining the tempo and power of death metal with the atmosphere and notes of black metal, Stench put together a solid, entertaining metal album that'll get your head nodding.

Opening with a brief vocal sweep into the set up of the riff, "Archways" quickly turns into a black, grim, death fest. Mikael Pettersson's first scream turns the evil levels up without sounding corny. The guitars weave between the riffs with ease, while the drums pummel the song along with strong, mid-paced death persistence. "The Vast" plays out like Transylvanian Hunger Darkthrone covering Soulside Journey Darkthrone. Though miles cleaner than the previous description, the old school death vibe is very apparent on this track despite the thick, black vibe throughout. Not to be stuck in a morass of darkness, "Road" opens up the scales a bit and plays a less suffocating atmosphere. It's still bleak, but the riffs sing with a clean brightness not far from what you may hear from thrash's Big Four. The contemplative riffs between speedy sections break up the song, and the album, for that matter, quite nicely. This breather is dashed by the fiery onslaught of "Small Death." Quickly moving riffs and the pounding toms match the throaty growl and the well constructed metal beast begs the listener not to raise their horns to the sky. The tempo changes quite a bit in this one, but manages to stay coherent and very engaging. By gradual increases in song length, we soon arrive at the big 9 minute beastie, "Celebration." Epic in scope, this track encompasses lots of differing vibes prevalent in European metal. Riffs play like kites in the sky while the bass sticks around on the ground to keep them close and keep them dancing. Stench showcase their songwriting talents very well on this, because you never feel the 9 minute run time. Continuing with a shorter follow up, "Way" plays a bit more soundtracky with the Suspiria-esque wails in the background. A metal tribute to Goblin? Closing with the title track, we're brought back into the metal realm again. This six minute rocker continues Stench's approach to blackened death by keeping the atmosphere charged and ready. Fast, pounding moments are complimented by slower, melodic, contemplative pieces. Each serves to reinforce the other via juxtaposition, and it really sells it.

Stench: With a name like that, it's gotta be good! Simple in name, but not in approach, these Swedish death merchants wear their inspirations on their sleeves, but do not copy. Weaving older, less refined death with dark and clean (read: not lo-fi) black metal, Stench produce a very engaging piece of metal. It may not go down in history, but it's definitely a great listen.