I’ve been busy ticking off some much-needed classics from my record collection, Priest, Alice Cooper, AC/DC, etc. Not to mention my current lust for shameful Prog, in the vein of Marillion namely and perhaps less embarrassingly Pink Floyd. Aside from all this however there is always the bubbling need for Death Metal and currently filthy Ultra trve Death Metal. Tomb Mold, Blood Incantation and Fulci being particular favourites. So, I’m thankful for today’s review opportunity.

We turn to Italy today for the deathly delights of Xpus. Formed in 2015 the band have quickly ascended the ranks. Their debut full length Sanctus Dominus Deus Saboath came the very same year as their inception. Yet alas all fell silent thereafter. That is until now in 2020 as the band are taken on by the triumphant Transcending Obscurity Records for their sophomore release In Umbra Mortis Sedent. Will it prove a successful signing or will these Death infused maniacs be left to rot?

Opening track Abyssus Abyssum Invocat is standard Extreme Metal album intro fare with haunting ambience and chiming bells, it sets the scene but it’s already been set by us putting on the album, we know what we want! Ranting over and into the actual music we get Into The Sphere Of Madness, an evil sounding at points melodic Blackened Death rage. Some really strong riffs are found within as well as some OSDM vocals that resonate the 90s. Blood Rite Of Liberation introduces Doom themes in its sluggish riffs and desolate drumming, a welcome and befitting addition. A top track that isn’t without some powerful Black Metal riffs that gives the album some emotion and atmosphere. The obscure ambient intro to Of Purity, Chastity And Temptation adds further intrigue to the mix of the maniacal album and it soon makes way for further extremity as well as some good lyrical memorability.

After a thundering first half full of inspiration and intrigue why should Xpus stop? Indeed, Broken Is The Seal Of Equilibrium brings more melodic riffs to the forefront with its powerful Doom driven OSDM delivery. Even the less enticing tracks such as Clerical Rooms Of Depravity and Righteous Hands Of Molestation have their moments and keep the album ticking along. Truth be told I feel like the only reason the later part of the album is less exciting is purely because we’ve become accustomed to the band’s sound. Even the essential concluding track Holy Sperm Upon The Lambs is a bit tried and tested by this point, yet it’s still strong and exhibits much of the bands broad sound. The concluding instrumental track is a real let down however, total filler without any purpose or need.

In Umbra Mortis Sedent if nothing else has wet my appetite for further Xpus recordings. I believe that the vast array of influences at work here is a powerful statement. Perhaps it may even speak volumes that the band are yet to find their personal sound? However, this isn’t a defamation of character, rather it’s a subject of great interest. If you’re into Extreme Metal in any form then give Xpus a go, there’s a little something for everyone here and definite area for eventual growth and expansion.

(7/10 George Caley)

https://www.facebook.com/xpus666

https://xpus.bandcamp.com/album/in-umbra-mortis-sedent-death-metal