Eximperitus, (full name – Eximperituserqethhzebibšiptugakkathšulweliarzaxułum), are a death metal band from Belarus, and this is their third album.
Meritoriousness of Equanimity is the 34-minute successor to 2021’s Šahrartu. Eximperitus have crafted a death metal album that serves up a more complex and evocative flavour of death metal than is normal for the genre.
As a rough starting point for Meritoriousness of Equanimity, think of a cross between Disentomb, Hour of Penance, and Nile. Eximperitus have a personality of their own though, and this album is strong enough to stand on its own terms.
When compared to its predecessor, this new album contains three more tracks, but is 5 minutes shorter, indicating Eximperitus’ focus on streamlined song durations, They have also, for some unknown reason, included two short instrumental interludes; these are fine, (the second is actually pretty good), but are ultimately as throwaway as these things usually are.
Eximperitus unleash a barrage of technical brutality across Meritoriousness of Equanimity. Theirs is an intricate, multihued form of death metal though, and frequently incorporates melody and atmosphere into its withering assault at strategic points throughout. The foundation is one of iron-hard ferocious death metal, but Eximperitus are clever enough to thread their extremity with impressive detailing, which is woven tightly into the musical fabric. They then layer this with mood-rich emotion, resulting in a record that’s sure to make its mark on the listener.
Yes, Eximperitus offer up death metal that you’d never claim to be one-dimensional. For fans of the style this album delivers brutal heaviness and fierce intensity, but also atmospheric richness and emotive depth. For example; the guttural growls of the singer are augmented on one song by striking expressive clean singing, which works really well.
Meritoriousness of Equanimity requires a bit of time to truly open up its labyrinthine ways. Its initial charms are many, but as you become accustomed to exploring the music’s rich tapestry, you discover more and more and more.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 