DIES IRAE - The Sin War
October 30, 2002, 22 years ago
(Metal Blade)
Other than the pope and quasi-Marxist ideology, Poland's greatest export is undoubtedly death metal icons Vader. Revered, loved and respected by any and all, the band's influence stretches to our side of the pond, but said influence is probably most prevalent and strongly felt in the group's home nation: Decapitated chops heads off with the best of 'em, but you can't deny the hero worship. So, it come as no surprise that Dies Irae is not only from Poland and sounds like Vader, but actually features members of that Star Wars-loving band, as well. Less technical, less thrashy and more straight-up and forwardly aggressive, Dies Irae is blasting, warmongering fun, and if the notion of chaotic destruction appeals to you, then The Sin War will fill the gaps while you question your existential non-existence. I like a lot of what this band is doing in terms of the solos (more than just flash/speed), the rhythmic chugging ('Another Being Wasted') and the general malaise that finds itself starkly and oddly at home on this record.
