Published: July 22, 2024

DØDSFERD is synonymous with Wrath, the founder, vocalist, and guitarist for said band. On May 10, 2024, the band released their twelfth studio full-length album, “Wrath,” onHypnotic Dirge Records in collaboration with Fuck Your Creation Records. While the verdict is still out as to whether this technically qualifies as an eponymous album (an album named after the band that issued it), there is no question as to the reputation that DØDSFERD has garnered during their 20+ years on the extreme metal scene. They are as well-respected as they are prolific.

It has been three years since we last had album from this Greek Black Metal stalwart, though there was a 2023 acoustic collaboration with SARVOK. Although “Wrath” only comprises six tracks, it has a runtime of 43 minutes, with most tracks extending past the seven-minute mark. As far as theme, promo material states the album is a “vigorous indictment of the social and economic consequences of capitalism, political corruption, ecocide, and the largest argument against our civility – warfare.” Looking over the last three years, there has been no lack of baneful world events to draw inspiration from.

“Wrath” lives into its monicker and delivers track after track of pure vehemence. The only momentary reprieves we get are the first few intro seconds of several tracks. They each sound like different stages of someone getting flayed alive, so when I say ‘reprieve’ I mean it only nominally. Artwork is again by George Gyzis (aka Bacchus). Depicting a subterranean vein of oozing liquid gold in the shape of an inverted cross, it speaks to the corruption of earthly motives. A more than suitable image to capture the premise of the album.

The album kicks off with “Restoration of Justice” which, as you would expect, sets the tone for the entire collection. And a severe, discordant tone it is, featuring a solid seven minutes of breakneck tempo crusted with melodic tremolo. Another standout track is “Raging Lust of Creation” which hearkens back aesthetically to the utter rawness FWBM. The simple double bass intro and the layered tremolo assault is perfection. I also love the periodic death grunts that drop like lead punches. This track runs for over ten minutes providing a wide-ranging sonic landscape that varies from thick mires of Doom to the broken cliffs of jagged despair.

The final track, “Failure Ablaze in Your Existence,” couples the aforementioned field recording from hell itself with a galloping double bass to create a one glorious intro. The best moment is when Wrath intones “Summon . . . the insignificance . . . of your . . . God!” The track is replete with savage riffs and several melodic breaks. Perfect closer. Also, the title is sardonically poetic. Dark, cruel poetry, but poetic just the same.

DØDSFERD can always be relied upon for producing classically pitched Black Metal and with “Wrath” they again deliver on that commitment.

Rating: 7/10
Review by: Gary Hernandez