Defiled's ninth album, Altered State, marks a significant shift in their sound, moving away from the chaotic, genre-bending experimentation of their earlier work towards a more controlled, yet still distinctive, approach. This transformation is evident in the album's structure, which, while maintaining the band's signature wackiness, is more focused and engaging. The album's production quality has also improved, giving the music a classic, heavy feel that enhances the songwriting. This review delves into the album's strengths and weaknesses, offering a detailed analysis of Defiled's evolution and the impact of their latest release.
One of the most notable aspects of Altered State is the band's ability to maintain their unique style while incorporating elements from various genres. The album's opening tracks, such as 'Dazed in Blindness' and 'Prophecies', showcase the band's signature rhythmic changes and odd time signatures, which are a testament to their enduring creativity. However, the reviewer notes that the album's structure, particularly in the first seven tracks, can feel repetitive, leading to a sense of fatigue. This is where the album's second half steps in, with tracks like 'The Ultra Death' and 'Metamorphosis of Evil', which inject a much-needed dose of variety and energy.
The album's production is another area where Defiled has made significant strides. The mix, while still slightly compressed, gives the music a classic, heavy feel that enhances the songwriting. This is particularly evident in the bass excursions of Takachita Nakajima, which bring back some of the low-end grooves that defined the band's early years. The production also allows the band's musicians to shine, with the guitar riffs of Yusuke Sumita and Sinichiro Hamada standing out as particularly catchy and memorable.
Vocally, Keisuke Hamada delivers a solid, deathly growl with a hint of groove metal grit, which is consistent with the band's usual approach. While his phrasing doesn't vary much, it serves its purpose effectively, particularly in the album's more aggressive moments. The reviewer notes that the vocal delivery is predictable, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise strong vocal performance.
Despite the album's strengths, the reviewer acknowledges that Altered State is not without its flaws. The album's structure, while improved, still has room for growth, and the band's tendency to rely on familiar patterns can lead to a sense of monotony. However, the overall improvement in production, songwriting, and performance makes Altered State a significant step forward for Defiled, marking a course correction that the band desperately needed.
In conclusion, Altered State is a solid album that showcases Defiled's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. It is a welcome addition to the band's discography, offering a fresh take on their signature sound while maintaining the energy and excitement that has defined their career. The album's release on June 12th, 2026, is highly anticipated, and it is sure to be a standout release in the world of extreme metal.
