Dethbeds
Dungeon Scum
(Self-Release)
Dethbeds are quite awesome. No, not actual death beds; those are rather sad things. Dethbeds the band are a group of Michigan transplants now in Chicago who are creating some truly exciting new metallic hardcore punk. It’s technical and somewhat progressive, but Dungeon Scum is certainly fueled by piss and vinegar. Dethbeds take influence from classic chaotic groups like Converge, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and Refused, yet their love of Sabbath-ian riffing is reminiscent of a delightfully deranged Cancer Bats. All this is to say that this 17-minute record flies by, and it’s very likely to leave the listener elated, disoriented, and ready for more.
Thankfully, their admiration of Black Sabbath pays mighty dividends, as Dungeon Scum excels in the riff department. Sure, the hyper-blasting and swirling songwriting can be a bit much at times, but songs like the title track and “Ungoliant” are riff machines first and foremost. They also happen to be the two of the longer songs, showcasing that Dethbeds can reign in their love of chaos just enough to make it work in a more long-form setting.
Ultimately, Dethbeds feel like a lost treasure from the 90s. Their version of metallic hardcore punk isn’t particularly trendy, and their gloriously DIY artwork and aesthetic aid in the feeling that Dethbeds have come back from the past to craft some of the best heavy tunes of 2016. Dungeon Scum is fast, fun, and furious, coming from one of the most exciting new bands to come out this year.
