ninehertz

Sludge-grind seems like such a misnomer, an oxymoron - genres from opposing ends of the tempo spectrum in extreme metal as to be incompatible. The few places it is valid and works are the bands who show passages of both, at different times - Soilent Green perhaps. But Secret Cutter, who parade that combo tag, are a band out on their own. Somehow they feel as dirty and fucked up as any sludge band whilst playing ear-splitting riffs at breakneck speed. They're a one off; their last two albums in their small back catalogue among my favourites ever. Quantum Eraser is one of the best albums of the last decade, tell me I'm wrong.

I had presumed them gone, but then this appears - no press, no self promo, no social media, no lead out tracks, just a whole ten track album dumped online. I spend the time listening to the first track just buzzing at their return; it reminds me of when the Khanate album dropped with barely any notice a couple of years back, instantly clearing any plans I had for the next hour to just sit and absorb, earphones on and grin fixed - although musically on a different plain of course.

It feels good to be back in here, this bedlam of noise that somehow feels simultaneously chaotic and controlled, a feat they manage like no other. There's all the hallmarks here that you can only say are Secret Cutter. One drummer, one guitarist, one vocalist creating this pandemonium, a constant bludgeon that is potently addictive. Highlights abound, Destined to Fail and Spleen perhaps the pick of them.

It is solid throughout, the only downside in that it is perhaps missing a standout single track that'll burn its way into your brain, a shut the room down banger like Trampled by Light or Deformed Eye, to truly place this up their on a par with their previous two albums. Never the less it's an all out grind thrill ride unlike anything you'll find elsewhere.