Reviewed by Ian Webber

Although this is their debut album these Norwegians are no strangers in hard music circles. Comprising of three members of the acclaimed Extol, in many ways this is a continuation under a new guise. Certainly those who are familiar with the sweeping guitar sounds of their former incarnation will recognise many similarities. The album starts with a well crafted guitar instrumental that then breaks into "Tower Of Silence" which is anything but silent. Crunching guitars back some throaty growls in the style of a metalcore outfit. This however is a recording full of progressive invention and includes tracks that take a trip through some carefully constructed melodies full of turmoil and technical riffing. Favourites include the epic "Exorcism - In A Treacherous Kiss" and "The Dark Passenger". A mixture of clean vocals and gut-wrenching growls deliver some thought provoking lyrics that come from a clear Christian viewpoint throughout. 'The Descent' is an album full of variety and surprises, and may be too much for some listeners, but fans of Extol will not be disappointed and as a first offering this should capture a new set of followers who enjoy a variety of styles within the metal genre.

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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