Band: Evocation
Title: Dead Calm Chaos
Label: Cyclone Empire
Distribution:
Release date: 31/10/2008
Review: CD

The history of the Swedish band Evocation starts in 1991. After the recording of two demos / promos (re-released a few years ago on LP and CD), however, the band was put on hold for a period, even though several labels were interested in signing this band. A few years ago, the continuation of Evocation became reality, and with fresh ideas and a renewed motivation, this resulted in the recording of Tales From The Tomb, probably, no sorry, certainly one of the best Death Metal releases from Sweden last year. In mean time, the band did also finish their successor, Dead Calm Chaos, which has duration of forty four minutes. Dead Calm Chaos mainly goes on in the vein of the former album, but I can’t ignore a certain feeling of ‘tranquillity’. This album seems to be more intimate and modest (yet without losing its powers, believe me). The old school tracks combine both the Gothenburg and Stockholm sound and even the production is rough and archaic (read: splendid!). The tempo varies from slow over mid-tempo to fast, but Evocation’s aim is not to be the fastest band from Sweden, luckily. In spite of the total lack of originality, this album is a recommendation, because of the sublime song writing and the superior performance and interpretation of the Death-hymns. Personally I can also appreciate the epic approach of the songs, as well as the somewhat grim and dark atmosphere. Oh yes, on this album, guest appearances are performed by Dan Swanö (Edge Of Sanity, Bloodbath, Infestdead, Ribspreader etc) and Anders Björler (ex-At The Gates, The Haunted, Terror, Infestation, …). Interfaces: Unleashed, Amon Amarth, Dismember, Centinex, Nihilist/Entombed etc.

90/100

Ivan Tibos.