Those Who Bring The Torture – Towards Decay

The Swedish (Kiruna-based) death metal band Those Who Bring The Torture has recently released their ninth album, Towards Decay via Iron, Blood and Death Corporation. For those of you still unfamiliar with this band, I can tell that the band was originally formed in 2007, officially disbanded in 2010, and then reformed in 2012 evolving into a solo project by Rogga Johansson, who’s the only remaining original member of the band. At the present time, Rogga is joined by John Rudin (drums) and Kjetil Lynghaug (guitar).

What this Kiruna trio offer on this latest full-length is a sample of death metal within what we call Swedish-style, with dense and powerful sound and at the same time melodic and catchy parts. Meanwhile, one can also hear some so-called US-style riffing. All nine tracks from Towards Decay showcase variety and diversity, where each track is distinct, blending those melodic segments with some furious typical elements of death metal, but it also varies in tempo with numerous break-downs, slow down parts that are often succeeded by some relentless, violent and furious death metal sonic attacks. Lyrically it embodies themes of hate and violence, but in a pretty interesting manner and with different approach than many of other death metal releases issued nowadays. Rogga’s powerful voice fits perfectly into the songs. It sounds mature and well written record, esp. with the inclusion of powerful riffs, forceful drums and a lead guitar that create some really good melodic layers, a few decent hooks and especially a really strong leads.

Towards Decay is a comfortable and listenable album, which in just under 30 minutes, and one is not bored at all while exploring this violent nine-tracker death metal journey. It showcases a solid craftsmanship and decent songwriting.

Knowing that Rogga Johansson is ‘the man of a thousand bands’ I’m already looking towards next release for this highly productive and hard workin’ man. With the release of Towards Decay, Rogga and his band, still continues to assert its presence and staying relevant on the death metal scene anno 2024. At least, Towards Decay is a testament to the band’s refined, dirty, rough & brutal style, and as such highly recommended for fans of Hypocrisy, Grave, At The Gates, Bloodbath etc.

Further info on this partuclar release can be optained at https://ironbloodanddeath.bandcamp.com/album/towards-decay