The music industry is about to be rocked by the release of "Initium Mortis", the highly anticipated debut album from LEFT TO DIE, a supergroup featuring former DEATH members Rick Rozz and Terry Butler. This album is a journey back in time, paying homage to the brutal beginnings of DEATH and the early days of death metal.
A Tribute to Death Metal's Roots
LEFT TO DIE has taken on the ambitious task of reimagining and recording songs from DEATH's early catalog, including tracks from the iconic "Leprosy" album and the band's debut, "Scream Bloody Gore". The result is a captivating blend of nostalgia and modern execution, bringing these classic songs to life in a whole new light.
The Personal Touch
What makes this project truly special is the personal connection and passion that the band members bring to it. Matt Harvey, one of the founding members, explains how the idea came about: "Rick wondered if people might want to hear something similar to the tribute show we did for Chuck [Schuldiner], but with him joining us to perform 'Leprosy'." This led to a successful tour and eventually, the decision to record an album.
A Labor of Love
The band's dedication to preserving the legacy of DEATH is evident in their approach to the album. They wanted to give fans a chance to hear the early demo songs with improved production quality, as Butler mentions, "Most of these early demos were recorded on a boom box, so we wanted to present them with good production." This attention to detail showcases their respect for the music and its history.
A New Perspective
Gus Rios, another founding member, shares his unique perspective on the project: "To hear these songs with clean and solid production is like getting new DEATH songs... It's surreal!" This sentiment highlights how the band has breathed new life into these classic tracks, offering a fresh take on death metal's roots.
A Celebration of Camaraderie
"Initium Mortis" is not just an album; it's a celebration of the camaraderie and friendship within the extreme metal community. Rozz expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to work with his bandmates, saying, "It's been an honor and pleasure." This project brings together musicians who have a deep connection to the music and each other, creating a powerful and authentic experience.
The Evolution of Death Metal
As the band delves into the early days of DEATH and MANTAS, they uncover the evolution of death metal. The album showcases the raw energy and creativity of those formative years, providing a glimpse into the genre's origins. "Archangel" is a perfect example, as Butler describes it, "controlled chaos at its finest."
A Legacy Preserved
With the release of "Initium Mortis", LEFT TO DIE ensures that the legacy of DEATH and the early pioneers of death metal continues to thrive. This album is a must-have for fans of the genre, offering a unique perspective on its history. It's a testament to the enduring power of music and the bonds it creates.
As we eagerly await the album's release, one thing is certain: LEFT TO DIE has crafted a masterpiece that will leave a lasting impact on the metal community.
