Coming from San Jose, California, Death Metal outfit ASEPTIC deliver their second EP so far with "Cascading Fluids", a slash of Old School Death Metal, filled with high-energy, pure evil and a raw sound. Although it clocks in under twelve minutes, "Cascading Fluids" is certainly fun and fully formed. Weird wet noises, evoking something like chewing or dripping set things in motion with the what-you-read-is-what-you-get "Intro". Some dark, sludgy riffing adds a little Doom to the mix, easing your into the EP and particularly into the next track, flowing perfectly from one another.

"I Rot Away" highlights the classic Death Metal sound of the band, feeling straight out of the eighties, from the production to riff building. Wicked and evil sounding, it carries the listener away with ease. The drums have actual depth in spite of the raw sound, and never sound like machines, just as human as it is demonic. A banger for sure. Complex, fast-paced drumming is the highlight of "Festering Orifices", where Luis Guardado shines with his almost thrashy style at several points. The title track comes next, being the single most brutal on the EP. Filled with catchy riffing and almost punkish energy, it ends way too soon being just a minute and a half long.

"Addictive Reek" brings back the Doom-y feel again, being a great closer with tasty musicianship and more vile songwriting. It ends up dissolving into ambient soundscape and more wet noises, with somber whispering. A sinister finale. "Cascading Fluids" is an enjoyable EP that makes the most of its length, yet still leaves you wanting more. ASEPTIC succeed in recreating the classic Death Metal sounds and atmosphere without sounding like copycats. The production fits the music in its rawness, even if there is room for improvement, especially with the bass getting a little lost at times in the mix. Overall, a worthy effort filled with brutal yet entertaining music to headbang along.