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SarsekimParoxysm Independent A two-track EP, 'Paroxysm' is local death metal band Sarsekim's first release since 2000's six-track 'Aegri Somnia Vana', and one created with a largely different line-up from that which produced the earlier work (only vocalist David Williams and guitarist Aaron Tuck remain). The first of its tracks, a gore song entitled With Absence Of Warning, is about four-and-a-half minutes long and opens with a fairly lengthy intro. Mid-paced overall, the EP progresses through a series of interesting stages: some quite laid back (including one featuring a protracted guitar solo from newest band member, Darren McLennan), others conveying an air of considerable tension. James Bailey's drumming really comes to the forefront near the end of the piece, while at various other points, he creates dense background walls of clashing cymbals. Around eight minutes in length, the second track, The Fall Of Zedekiah, is an epic piece, and revolves around the unpleasant fate of the titular last king of ancient Judah. Like the preceding track, it has a protracted intro, features guitar solos (four in this case), and is quite complex. Not surprisingly, given its length, it contains many instrumental stretches, and also has a slow, wonderfully menacing chorus. The clashing cymbals of the first entry are present here as well, and Bailey also engages in an interesting little bit of military-sounding drumming towards the end. Some sections of the song are surprisingly gentle, including that which brings the track to its close. While brief, 'Paroxysm' is an enjoyable work all the same, and shows Sarsekim to be competent songwriters and musicians. The new line-up seems to be working well.  |
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