Ashen released a pretty rad debut EP, Godless Oath back in August or 2021. This little EP was able to spark enough fury with it’s no nonsense approach to which can be considered “classic Death Metal.” No gimmicks, no “retro inspired” tracks. Just straight up kick you in the balls , born in the fire Death Metal.
Yee Haw. Let’s flppin’ go.
Ashen first full length, Ritual of Ash was released in January of 2023. Opening with “Ritual,” Ashen starts off with a slow crawl while managing to include pretty sick groove. “Deadsight,” follows much of the same path almost slowing down into Doom territory in moments. Don’t get too comfortable though as their is still plenty of tremlo and blast beat terror mixed within.
Threshold and Blood slow things down a bit here and there in order to deliver either a new killer hook or more savage vocals. “Cursed Rebirth” starts off with an awesome melodic riff that plods the track along. Personally, this is my favorite track off the album, part fist pumping, part face bashing, all awesome!
The next 2 tracks feel like they step out of the early 90’s. Old school Death Metal fans take note here. “Embrace of Extinction,” and “Gravemind,” are classics in the making. Here are some incredible vocals with some real nasty riffs.
“Buried in Ice,” is another track for the Melodic Death Metal fans. The riff here really reminds me of Glasgow era Arch Enemy. (That’s a compliment) “Inhuman,” isn’t the best song to close the album on. It’s not bad in the least but fails to leave as much as a lasting impression as other songs may have.
If you are looking for some “Old School” Death Metal but are tired of so many bands trying too hard, this Bud’s you.