The Ordher - Weaponize
The Ordher consist of ex-members of Brazilian death metal bands Rebaelliun and Nephasth, the latter of whom appeared on Relapse’s Brazilian Assault compilation back in 2000. Their full-length debut, Weaponize, is a departure from the technical death metal that’s Unique Leader‘s trademark. Instead, it’s much more straightforward, recalling fellow countrymen Krisiun, though more melodic and not so relentless.
WeaponizeThe PoisonThe Razor’s Edge (AC/DC cover)
Interestingly, Weaponize harkens back to old-school death metal – much of it is essentially extremely fast thrash – yet it has melodic touches that are modern and catchy. The album is 40 fat-free minutes with an interlude placed perfectly in the middle for that “Side A/Side B” feel. Blazing speed is the M.O., though the band often drops into awesomely headbangable grooves. That ripping thrash section at 1:21 in “The Poison” makes me want to find random people and smash their skulls together (an atypical impulse in my advancing age). Leads are brief but fiery, often with wah-wah enhancement. The vibe isn’t “evil” so much as “intense.”
On its site, the band has posted a cover of “The Razor’s Edge,” one of my favorite AC/DC songs. Great taste, great chops, great band. Weaponize is one efficient killing machine, and some of the best death metal I’ve heard in a while. It’s available at Unique Leader, which not only has its usual “Buy 3 CD’s, get the 4th free” deal, but also a holiday special of a free Unique Leader T-shirt with a $36 purchase – the price of 3 CD’s. Bang your head!
