DEICIDE 'The Stench of Redemption' (Earache) RATING: 8/10 Buy now

By JEFF MAKI

To any metal fan, the name Deicide alone represents pure evil. There a certain aura surrounding the band. To many, Deicide is the epitome of heavy. The Stench of Redemption is Deicide's first album with its newly revamped lineup. After a falling out with vocalist Glen Benton in 2005, the Hoffman brothers were replaced with new guitarists Jack Owen (ex-Cannibal Corpse) and Ralph Santolla (ex-Death/Iced Earth). These two bring an entirely new dimension to the band with their skillful, memorable solos.

Deicide's over-the-top antics and heaviness always have seemed a little forced, but now there is more of a complete, (un)natural sound. The title track opens the disc and is a pounding assault in true Deicide form. "Death Of Jesus" is a standout with outstanding guitar work and screeching backing vocals from Benton that may have your hair stand on end. Benton's backing vocals are used to a much higher extent here than on previous recordings, making the songs and lyrics more exciting. I am interested to hear a full song with these vocals. "Desecration"'s tempo changes and crushing riffs are powerful and memorable, something lacking in Deicide's music since Once Upon a Cross. In fact, there are even choruses present on The Stench of Redemption; see "Crucified for the Innocence' for a strong example of this. "Homage for Satan" begins with a "War Ensemble"-esque riff before becoming perhaps the fastest death metal song ever recorded.

Deicide's last few albums and satanic imagery had become somewhat predictable. They must have realized this because The Stench of Redemption sounds like a band reborn. This is an exciting album from start to finish and will be a staple for death metal for years to come. Although the lyrics, song names and imagery may still seem cliché, the serious vibe of this album makes it seem all too real.

Deicide truly sounds like a band on a mission here. Satan should be pleased.