EXISTENTIALIST is a Deathcore band out of Essex, England. They released their second full-length, "The Heretic," on April 28, 2023 via Seek and Strike Records. Albert Camus could have never predicted this outcome over 75 years ago when he wrote his seminal existentialist novel, "The Plague," though I should note that EXISTENTIALIST released their debut album, "Prophet of Ignorance" in 2020, the year of our plague. Just saying.

"The Heretic" comprises nine tracks and hits just about 50 minutes. It is at its best and most interesting when it fuses blackened symphonics. It is less compelling when it falls into the step with the predictable Deathcore hymn book of thrashy riffs and blast-beat rhythms. Altogether, though, the album is more intriguing than not with some notable high points.

Lyrically and thematically, the album is heavily Death with hellish imagery and satanic sensibilities (philosophically speaking); musically, it's Death Metal by riffs and Black Metal by atmosphere. There are also the Deathcore drops and guttural vocals that range graveled to frenzied. No clean singing. At. All.

Best tracks are the opener, "Shrouded in Darkness," which integrates the some really well-done dark synth; "Churchburner" which showcases some stellar lead guitar work; and "The Eternity Gate" with a nice juxtaposition of nasty Thrashy riffs offset by trim chorale synths. And track four, "Embers Upon Calvary," featuring guest vocals by Jason Evans (INGESTED), will top the list for serious Deathcore fans.

I can't say I am a huge Deathcore fan, but I can appreciate the visceral artistry which EXISTENTIALIST specializes in, especially the blackened symphonic elements. A solid sophomore offering.