By Dave Schalek. “Murky, moody, and atmospheric” comes to mind in describing Grave Upheaval, a very dark and disturbing death metal band from Australia. Featuring members of both the monstrous Portal and Impetuous Ritual, it comes as no surprise that Grave Upheaval continue a proud tradition with extremely downtuned death metal played at a generally slow pace.
By Dave Schalek.
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“Murky, moody, and atmospheric” comes to mind in describing Grave Upheaval, a very dark and disturbing death metal band from Australia. Featuring members of both the monstrous Portal and Impetuous Ritual, it comes as no surprise that Grave Upheaval continue a proud tradition with extremely downtuned death metal played at a generally slow pace.
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| Photo by Dave Schalek |
Rather than just being a carbon copy of either Portal or Impetuous Ritual, though, Grave Upheaval wisely chart a slightly different course by emphasizing an unbelievable sense of density and weight; a vibe greatly enhanced by a thoroughly bottom heavy production. Think bands such as Witchrist/ Diocletian, and you’re in the ballpark. A rather surprising amount of variation occurs within a nearly impenetrable layer of murk as the pacing alternates between that of a glacier and a chaotic whirlwind. The slower moments pile on the atmosphere and allow the listener to catch some of the riffing, which would have otherwise been buried. Adding further to a weird sense of unease surrounding Grave Upheaval are some hauntingly delivered vocals, as well as the band’s choice to eschew a title to the album, or to the individual songs for that matter.
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| Photo by Dave Schalek |
Although not particularly original, the debut full-length from Grave Upheaval will certainly attract listeners of similar acts.