Review: Through The Eyes of The Dead – Skepsis

Artist: Through The Eyes Of The Dead
Album: Skepsis
Genre: Death Metal
Label: Prosthetic

South Carolina’s Through the Eyes of the Dead dominated the death metal scene upon the release of their debut album, Bloodlust, in 2005. However, in 2007, after losing their vocalist, Anthony Gunnells, they lost some footing. Nate Johnson stepped in for the release of their second album, Malice, which simply could not compare to its notable predecessor but was still well received. After numerous lineup changes and losing three out of five members TTEOTD are nearing the release of their long awaited third studio album Skepsis, on Prosthetic Records. New members Danny Rodriguez (vocals), Chris Henckle (guitar) and Michael Ranne (drums), round out the revamped lineup.  To say that their sound has slightly changed since Bloodlust would be a gross understatement but change is expected due to the vast amount of changes they’ve underwent.

Kicking off their album, TTEOTD chose a route that is nothing new to the deathcore scene.  Although soundscapes are often generic, I’ll be the first to admit some really capture the essence of the theme. “Parasite Throne,” on the other hand was shrieking and left me with a sore first impression.

“Dementia,” regained some of the previously lost hope. Instantly, Ranne shines with his seemingly inhuman fast-paced drumming that is paired with a frenzy of blast beats. Vocally, throughout the album there is an apparent comparison to The Black Dahlia Murder’s higher registered screams, which is immediately evident on this track. The almost screechy vocal style is frequently used presently and starts to sound a little redundant.  Thankfully, Rodriguez also incorporates lower death vocals that add some depth.

As the record moves on we come to not only the highlight tracks, but easily the most eccentric and memorable.  Midway through, “The Manifest,” we’re struck with some of the most impressive and intricate guitar work on the album including a few admirable breakdowns. Following, towards the end of “Defaced Reality,” there is a noteworthy techy guitar solo that came out of left field and much like the rest of the album the double-bass work is superb.

Although I believe Through the Eyes of the Dead were at the top of their game in 2005, I have to give them credit for sticking it out through all the lineup changes they’ve ensued.  With typical vocals, some great riffs, impressive fleet-footed double bass work with a fury of blast beats, all familiar to the genre, TTEOTD aren’t bringing anything innovated to the table but their strong effort is commendable and Skepsis is a suitable follow up to Malice.

Score: 7/10
Written By: Nerissa Judd

James Shotwell
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One Response to “Review: Through The Eyes of The Dead – Skepsis”

  1. TTEOTD says:

    I don’t know how I skipped this review, but thanks Nerissa for reviewing our record and I appreciate the kind words and constructive criticism.