Sometimes, some bands to things that they want in a very shy way. Maybe it's the resentment from breaking some rules, in our time when some Metallians are so linked to the past that can't understand the main reason for Metal to evolve: to become new and fresh for future generations. Each time has its languages, its ways, so we must respect a lot the past (not live on it), but see the world as it is through its changes. And

IMMORTAL BIRD, from Illinois (USA) is really searching for their own musical style and place in extreme Metal world with "Empress, Abscess", their first album. They are into an extreme Metal way near of Death Metal, but using a very good level of musical technique, and some elements on their songs really reminds a lot something we know from Sludge Metal and even from Groove Metal. And yes, it sounds aggressive and full of a high dose of pure adrenaline, but with a very good technique in all instruments. But you better beware: their music is not easy to understand for those with a fanatic mind in Metal, and for those who are not used to well worked musical arrangements.

Their sound quality is a bit harsh than the needed for their musical work. No, I believe that Pete Grossman (on recording) and Colin Marston (on mixing and mastering) tried their best to equilibrium a good level of clearness with a thundering and heavy weight, but to a band with this kind of musical work, it's a very difficult task. But besides it's not perfect, it doesn't turn the band's musical work in something that we could understand. Obviously, the band got some help on recording of the album from the especial guests John Hoffman on additional vocals on "Neoplastic" and from Garry Naples on drums, so their work sounds very good.

"Saprophyte" with its more experimental insight (and very good work on drums and bass guitar, due the rhythmic changes), the harsh and abrasive "The Sycophant" (with some excellent guitar riffs) and  long and full of very good vocals "And Send Fire" can be seen as their best songs, but the entire album is very good.

A very good name, indeed.