(Un)Worthy – This Present Darkness
Release Date: 17th May 2024
Label: Rottweiler Records
Bandcamp
Genre: Deathcore, Death Metal.
FFO: Desolate Tomb, Osiah, Voluntary Mortification, Oceano.
Review By: Metal Miguel
On May 17, 2024, the deathcore landscape will shudder under the weight of (Un)Worthy’s latest album release, “This Present Darkness,” via Rottweiler Records is straight from the seething hotbed of Southern California’s metal scene, this two-piece band, consisting of vocalist Dennis and multi-instrumentalist Jordan, continues to redefine the boundaries of the genre with their intensely fierce and uncompromising sound. Since their debut in 2021 with “In The Face Of Death” and following up with the wildly successful EP “Where Light Divides” in 2023, (Un)Worthy has not only established but also cemented their place in the hearts of deathcore enthusiasts. Known for their explosive performances and groundbreaking releases, they have quickly become a staple on playlists of fans of bands like Desolate Tomb and Oceano.
“This Present Darkness” has an unrelenting musical ferocity as it opens with the chilling first single, ‘Forsaken By God,’ where the agony of existential despair is palpably felt. The lyrics, a haunting echo of Christ’s lament on the cross, setting the tone for an album that is both viscerally and emotionally overpowering. The track features a guest appearance by Voluntary Mortification’s Conner Luttig, adding an extra layer of vocal ferocity to the mix. As listeners journey through the album, they encounter the molten intensity of the title track and the cutting riffs of ‘Satan Whispers‘. The emotional depth reaches a zenith with ‘Psalm Of Lament‘, a track that transitions into the relentless ‘This Too Shall Pass‘, featuring guitarist Joe Holt from Holy Name. The album is relentless, a continuous onslaught of sonic brutality that leaves no room for respite. The album’s artwork, a monochromatic vision of fear and solitude, mirrors the dark themes explored within its tracks. The visuals are as haunting as the music is punishing, creating a holistic experience of dread and intensity that is rare in today’s music, but mainly from the topic which the album explores and is passionately followed by the creators of the album.
The production of the album is a masterpiece in itself, showcasing surging rhythmic riffs, colossal drums, and a caustic sound that serves as the perfect backdrop for the thematic content of the album. Every element of “This Present Darkness” is engineered to thrust listeners into the eye of a relentless storm, challenging them to find the light amidst the overwhelming darkness, by design and as art would have it, the presentation of the whale album from sound to artwork, to the lyrical content, all has the bludgeoning message of faith seared into the creativity of all parts.
With “This Present Darkness,” (Un)Worthy not only pushes the boundaries of deathcore but also challenges its listeners to dive deep into themes of despair, resistance, and redemption. The album is a testament to the band’s evolution and their commitment to producing music that is not just heard but felt. A staggering collection of tracks that is sure to resonate with new listeners and long-time fans alike, this album is set to leave a significant mark on the metal world. If the searing tracks are any indication, nothing will stand in the way of this album’s impact—a truly unyielding force in the realm of extreme music.
(4 / 5)
