Arise from Worms' debut album, A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction, is a technical death metal masterpiece that showcases the band's impressive lineup and their ability to shred. With contributions from legends like Steve Tucker of Morbid Angel and Derek Sherinian of Dream Theater, the album promises to be a thrilling ride. However, despite the stellar performances, the album falls short in terms of songwriting, leaving listeners with a mixed impression.
The album's opening track, 'Forgotten Kings', is a scorcher, with Lombardozzi's guitar shredding and Sherinian's keyboard flourishes creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The band's technical prowess is evident throughout, with each member delivering their part with precision and flair. But, as the album progresses, the lack of songwriting cohesion becomes apparent. The album's songs often feel like showcases of technical proficiency rather than fully formed tracks.
One of the album's strengths is its production quality. The mix is tight and well-balanced, allowing each instrument to shine without overwhelming the listener. The album's sound is a step above the typical technical death metal production, with a focus on clarity and impact. However, this attention to detail doesn't make up for the lack of substance in the songwriting.
In my opinion, the album's highlight is the band's ability to create a cohesive and engaging atmosphere. The album's themes and moods are well-crafted, and the band's technical skills serve to enhance the overall experience. However, the album's reliance on technical showmanship and self-indulgent instrumentation leaves it feeling somewhat unmoved.
Arise from Worms has the potential to be a groundbreaking force in technical death metal, but A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction falls short of its promise. The album's performances are impressive, but the lack of songwriting cohesion and thematic depth leave it feeling somewhat hollow. Despite this, the album is a must-listen for fans of technical death metal and those who appreciate the band's impressive lineup and production quality.
Rating: Mixed
DR: 7 | Format Reviewed: V0 or ~260 kbps VBR mp3
Label: Church Road Records (https://churchroadrecords.com/)
Websites: Bandcamp (https://arisefromworms.bandcamp.com/album/a-bleeding-tree-hanging-self-destruction) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/arisefromworms/)
Releases Worldwide: July 10th, 2026
