Reviewed by Ian Webber

Opening with a traditional metal riff, this four-piece outfit from Portland, Oregon thunder and rumble through a progressive metal EP. Throughout the recording, the majority of the vocals centre on the rasps of Rodney Wilder who delivers a forthright Gospel message of the temptation of Christ with surprising clarity over a range of brutal tracks. In addition to some accomplished guitar work you are confronted with an onslaught of drums that echo and resound with power. The title track is an experimental epic that clocks in at nearly seven minutes and showcases the talents that this group possess. Clean vocals match with quieter sections as "Trial Of Decimation" is introduced by a rhythmical wave of strumming. This track develops as the acoustic sound makes way for an imaginative guitar tone, adding some bright accents. The standout track is the closing "LuciPhilosophaster" which, once again, paints a musical picture in light and shade. As Wilder growls through a menacing set of verses, a lumbering rhythm creates an almost melodic feel. At 20 minutes in length, these four tracks reveal just enough of a taster as to what this group has to offer. Although production is a little rough around the edges at times, Throne Of Awful Splendor have come up with a modern twist to a classic metal sound.

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