author: Jacob

DEATHGAZE has churned out a number of singles this year with a triple release campaign in the winter and spring; the band surprised fans by releasing another single, which was available only through mail order and live distribution. Their fourth single since bassist Ai assumed the position as vocalist, abyss shows his development as well as some lingering weaknesses.

The opening track, abyss, portrays the typical heavy metal style that is associated with DEATHGAZE. The track opens with strong drum pounding from Naoki, and has Ai begin with a heavily computer-distorted screaming section. As the song continues, with its heavy double-bass rumbling, Kousuke's bass line becomes more evident. Being a new addition to the band, this will put immediate confidence in his abilities to fill the position of bassist. abyss's singing leans to the melodious side for most of the song, with small interjections of screaming, but an overall hopeful and upbeat sound resounds. Naoto leaves small hints of a guitar solo, but nothing ever develops outside of the main riff through the majority of the song, and the tune ends without much notice.

the menace enters with another chaotic exposition, this time with a distraught guitar and drum duel. Ai's singing starts in a direct, open, melodramatic style, and then slips down into a heavier aggression than in the previous track. The song shows a much more serious tone and sounds a bit less like Ai lamenting, and more like a band with real anger. The mid-section of the menace brings in some impressive slap bass and a loud attack of cymbal-ridden drumming, while the vocal track is a bit more experimental, with eerie background vocals and then some untamed, screamed verses. The heaviness is followed by a brief whisper and a sharp guitar solo from Naoto. This track holds a much stronger stance than the A-side, and will satisfy those looking for something to rock out to without any hesitation.

The band shows a bit of progression, with Ai using less computer distortion to mask a lesser-trained voice on the second track. The composition is straightforward and aggressive, but shows a higher degree of musicianship with well executed drumming, crisp guitar shredding and catchy bass lines. In the end, DEATHGAZE does not disappoint.