Here is quite the fortunate find! Engulf is the real deal emerging from the deepest, darkest reaches of the Death Metal realm. This is an unbelievable one man band powered by the mind of Hal Microutsicos – providing all music, instrumentation, and vocals for the project. It’s safe to say there’s a massive sound booming from his home state of New Jersey thanks to this undertaking.
The sound essentially combines the best of Old School Death Metal, drawing influence from (or at least comparable to the likes of) early Hate Eternal, Gorguts, and Morbid Angel. However, those mentions aren’t intended to take away from anything present here. With a few modernized twists and excellent songwriting, this undoubtedly stands in its own right.
Engulf launched a debut EP in the midsection of last month. It goes by the name of “Subsumed Atrocities” and, according to the artist himself, it’s a small collection of re-recordings from an unreleased 2015 demo “exploring topics of fantasy, space, comics and things that are bigger than any of us will ever be.” An admirable pursuit to say the very least. Speaking of which, “Subsumed Atrocities” is currently available for an unbelievable “name your price” download on Bandcamp right now!
The record only consists of two 4+ minute tracks. However, whatever it may lack in length is largely made up for by content. “Aeons of Hate” and “Gravitation” are two massive Death Metal tracks worthy of snapping necks in the name of metallic praise. They are dark, technical, and filled to the brim with a beautiful, cosmic fury.
The only real downside is that this EP will likely leave listeners craving more. Beyond that, it’s excellent for what it is and beckons no real criticisms from a lowly pleb like me.
All that being said, give this damn thing a listen! “Subsumed Atrocities” is a great moment for Death Metal in 2017. We’ve included a streamable version of the record up above. Press “play”!
Also, I repeat, the EP is available for a “name your price” download over on Bandcamp! If you enjoy the music, head over there and show Hal some much deserved love and support \m/
Update – “Subsumed Atrocities” is so good that Engulf was also just picked up by our friends at Everlasting Spew Records for a physical release! That’s a match made in heaven… or hell… I’m not sure which applies here.
Links: Facebook // Instagram // Bandcamp
