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BURNING CRYPT
Eclesiastic Abuse

Self-released (2023)
Rating: 7.5/10

These bruising Chilean’s from Santiago started out as Atrox in 2021 but I’m glad they changed their name to the more effective Burning Crypt. Eclesiastic Abuse is a fiendish debut full-length record with crossover influences and punchy vocals courtesy of Joaquín Gomez, who is also responsible for the choppy riffs.

I hear numerous influences here ranging from Vio-lence, Slayer, Sepultura, Meliah Rage and the South American styles via Metallica. If you like solid, no holds barred thrash then give this one a try; an album which comes armed with seven tracks coated with infectious melodies alongside rawness and seriousness.

Vocalist Joaquín Gomez has a bit of a James Hetfield vibe although with a more reckless streak, and he is matched by the musicality of the proceedings as ‘Malevolent Reflection’ comes charging out the blocks featuring some rampant percussion and a sizzling solo from Alejandro Mendoza.

Eclesiastic Abuse is a record that is less frenzied than a lot of other Chilean productions; this feels sharper in its textures but always treats the listener to high doses of thrash. ‘Gore Trenches’ and the title track are prime examples but there are also those very mature, melodic threads as showcased on ‘Mental Hostage’ and ‘God Is Abscent’ (sic) where technicality is also exhibited as the combo resorts to a more finer-tuned and steady pace.

Burning Crypt are a strong outfit which effortlessly combines melodic structures with faster, aggressive trends and to great effect.

Neil Arnold

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