Reviewed by Andy Long

At first listen it sounds like this is going to be just another thrasher band clawing their way through a hedge of death-laden lyrics and shred-heavy riffs. Thankfully the band soon reveal a deeper aspect of their musicality and add a second, belting rock vocal over the guttural growls of Chad Moore. The blend of sounds gives them a much more contemporary edge and brings a balance of sounds that will keep them interesting. When you realise that their guitarist and songwriter is Rocky Gray, whose alter-ego sits on the drum stool for Evanescence, it all starts to become a bit clearer. Lyrically they are steeped in the same territory as Rocky's other, other band, Living Sacrifice (busy guy!). "I Bury You", "Someone Just Walked Across My Grave" and "Existence In Despair" are typical of the old school death metal stylings, but Soul Embraced have managed to put something of a new twist into it.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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