Recently, German metal clinic DOW have issued their fourth installment of their dark, almost depressive row of EP's, "Fekuland", which I can only describe best as feculent, atmospheric chain of notes, put together in order to unleash disarray upon metalheads that dare to listen.

What I really like about the Deutscher metal scene, is the fact that it shudders abnormal genetics into its already existing genepool, and the lads at DOW are trying to make sure that everyone are aware of that being.

"Fekuland" is not your average experimental metal release; it consists of beautiful piano melodies and heartfelt bass lines that are played in such a slow tempo, that all listeners can understand the sentiment engraved inside the cover. The amount of emotional density in these tunes is overwhelming, but that has to be maneuvered through a tempest of destruction. For most of the hidden gems in "Fekuland", you'll end up digging for what will leave you most likely muffled and doubtful. My advice? Take a chance, and dig again. DOW were kind enough to make sure the listeners will search for the missing high ends, thus making sure we get into the essence of splendor.

The EP's self-titled track, though, doesn't put up with the rest of "Fekuland"'s stride. It feels a bit overridden by production, and the instruments blend into each other, making the manifest laden by unwanted noise. I'd typically not trash the entire review because of one song that received poor production emphasis, but since this is an EP of merely four tracks we're on about, I have to make the exception. Also, I do believe DOW could've made "Fekuland" in its completion a tad more accurately, even if keeping themselves independently labeled.

In conclusion, "Fekuland" is an EP that can predict how a full-length album would sound, if the fellas' at DOW would release one. It's filled with potential and apt, and it's a listener's worthwhile release, with no doubt.