Heads for the Dead – In the Absence of Faith (Review)

This is the latest EP from Heads for the Dead, an international death metal band.

By this point Heads for the Dead have firmly established themselves in my eyes as one of the best old-school, horror-influenced death metal bands there is. Everything they touch seems to turn to gold, albeit gold that’s covered in blood and screams.

Across 24 minutes Heads for the Dead ably showcase their gruesome death metal might. These new songs are steeped in morbid atmosphere and take a gloom-ridden doom influence into their rotten selves. They also display the band’s talents for macabre hooks and melodic catchiness, which means that this EP is a choice treat.

Heads for the Dead continue to develop their songwriting skills, and incorporate non-standard influences and ideas into their death metal with seamless ease. There’s no dull moment on this release, as the band make sure that the songs are engaging and enjoyable throughout.

Keyboards are used tastefully to add a layer of spectral atmosphere in key places. There’s a small amount of clean singing on The God Forsaken which is just great. Solos are provided throughout by a member of Sentient Horror, and these are well-delivered and satisfying. According to the promo blurb, the final track – Possession – is a tribute to Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield, and you can immediately hear why. Heads for the Dead do well to incorporate such an iconic sound into their death metal.

Another top tier release from Heads for the Dead. The band have yet to put a foot wrong, and In the Absence of Faith sees them continue to go from strength to strength.

Very highly recommended.