Metal maniacs, rejoice! The Thrasher returns to present to you: VIRVUM; signed independently, hailing from Switzerland...performing Progressive Death Metal - on their debut album entitled: "Illuminance" released on September 16^th, 2016.

Since formation in 2007; the quintet in question have only 2 Singles behind them, I'm acquainted with their debut album: "Illuminance". Right off the speakers; VIRVUM compile an interesting style of Death Metal, and that is to include the Progressive sub-genre for an unprecedented formula in place. As a Death Metal purist; I go in with medium expectations, and with the first track - "The Cypher Supreme" ...I sense DEATH-esque riffery while balancing a whole different perspective of what the mighty legacy of said quartet delivered in their day. The Progressive sub-genre has always baffled me; I'm only just beginning to understand it's perception, and while I continue to scratch my head with it's purpose...it certainly needs time to grow on you and appreciate - maybe because Death Metal is implemented, I'm enjoying it more...there are unparalleled indifferences that make this record quite unique and interestingly epic.

"Illuminance" consists of 8 detailed tracks ranging at around 40:17. "Earthwork" is a blistering jam full of experimental dexterity in place; I slowly began to enjoy some harmonic Death Metal, implementing a melodic atmosphere in which sounded elegant and original. The titular track "Illuminance", "Ad Rigorem" & "Tentacles Of The Sun" showcase similar attributes...displaying an utmost organic substance for instrumental fulfillment, intense pedal-drumming has a captivating silver-lining...fulfilling one with exquisite motivation. Tech-Death Progressives are very much felt; creating an unreal atmosphere with a very spacey feel. I'm beginning to find some suspiciously similar soundscapes from bands like BLOODSHOT DAWN as riffery amps up with furious intensity when "Elemental Shift" begins. Dynamic musicianship compiles this ingenious creation and I'm starting to appreciate Progressive Tech-Death a lot more with thanks to VIRVUM.

And so "I: A New Journey Awaits" takes a break from the madness; developing an immense atmospheric track that ascends to the concluding sequel "II: A Final Warming Shine: Ascension And Trespassing", a 10:27 finale which showcases complex vocal ranges from Bryan Berger...who has a distinct flair of epic growling prowess to some clean singing, with all this fused - I can safely say that this aesthetic is intricate and very much welcome. Nic Gruhn, and Toby Koelman on guitars balance their dexterous proficiency with unheard of divinity. Diego Morenzoni on drums pummels speedily through the very innovative "Illuminance"; almost excelling at some thrashing components. Overall – I enjoyed a very unconventional slice of solid Metal, certainly something for fans of bands like FALLUJAH, THE ZENITH PASSAGE and RIVERS OF NIHIL - just to name a few.

Worth checking out via their Bandcamp.<