Album Review: Daemon Pyre - Serpent Gods And A Dying Sun

Sometimes “real life” impedes further pursuing one's rock 'n' roll dreams – and Sydney metallers Daemon Pyre are a case in point. The band's essentially done and dusted, as some members focus on family or relocate overseas for work.

However, they've chosen to go out on a vicious note by issuing their second and final full-length. Thankfully, Serpent Gods And A Dying Sun exhibits a mood that's celebratory, not one of mourning nor going through the motions to fulfill contractual or personal obligations. The ten songs are a tasty trek through a death metal world heavily drenched in melody. Standouts like Eternal Sky's epic melodies, bruising riffs and acoustic flourishes satisfyingly balance a debt to both Swedish titans like At The Gates and Finnish sensations Insomnium.

There may be few genuine surprises for the hardened melodic death devotee, but the conviction aids their cause. There's plenty to embrace, from the classy guitar solos and guttural vocals, to thrashy inflections and concussion–inducing brutality. The Dying Spark is genuinely atmospheric, Decay's bleak, blackened overtones are neatly infused and Laudem Blasphemus' scathing delivery resonates.

Daemon Pyre supported high-profile acts and became renowned for visceral, in-your-face live performances. With no touring plans to support this record, Serpent Gods... feels like a fittingly crushing finale for a band for whom the spirit of the underground coursed through their veins.