Review GRACELESS “Icons of Ruin”

Hailing from Leiden, the Netherlands, Graceless quickly became a solid representative of Dutch death metal. After forming in 2016, the release of their debut album, “Shadowlands”, marked the band’s first step into a glorious future.

Their fourth album, “Icons of Ruin”, is set to release and will highlight the band’s development. With a stable lineup since 2016, the four-piece band has a clear vision for their sound and musical identity. Inspired by the fierce sound of bands like Bolt Thrower and Asphyx, the band recorded ten new, roaring death metal tracks.

The album opens with “God Shines in Absence,” a straightforward death metal anthem with blistering guitar riffs and Kreft’s barking vocals. This powerful song is the perfect introduction to the album, which continues with “Sacrificed Slaughter.” The start of the song connects to the opener before a massive tempo break surprises, creating a dynamic transition that sets the stage for the rest of the performance. Suddenly, we hear a slow-motion riff. This part of the song, inspired by doom metal, is a great counterpart to the following death metal sequence. This alternation shows that Graceless has a broader musical approach than just pushing the pedal hard.

Another song that builds on these principles is “Beneath Starless Skies.” It has a rather atmospheric start that shifts towards a slowly crawling riff monster that rolls over you without mercy. I like this aspect of Graceless’s music because it adds to the flow and versatility of “Icons of Ruin”

With the throbbing “Night of the Slain,” the band returns to familiar territory before “Hardening of the Heart” begins with an eerie intro. The song quickly develops into another riff monster with a subtle melodic element. Midway through, we encounter another break. A gentle guitar solo comes from left field and is followed by a riff that is sure to delight headbangers. Last but not least is the finale, “Resurrection of the Graveless.” This fast and blistering death metal song features grooving drums and bass. It hits the bullseye, ending an album that is the best Graceless has launched to date.

“Icons of Ruin” is a versatile and well-crafted death metal album that showcases the genre’s possibilities. Razor-sharp solos, meat-cleaver riffs, and a powerful rhythm section are what make “Icons of Ruin” a death metal highlight that should help the band solidify their fanbase beyond their home country.