As the prettiest feminist on the Teeth of the Divine staff, it’s no doubt my duty to review the debut EP of Emasculator. Featuring current and former members of Abnormality, Cartilage, Castrator, Poon Tickler, Oak, and Unfathomable Ruination, it’s sure to be not only anticipated by fans of the previously mentioned bands but enjoyed as well. It’s unfortunately only an EP of around 23 minutes, but that’s longer than some bands’ full lengths (Nails, I see you).

The first track, “Ecstasy in Disseverment (Of Self),” wastes no time getting up and running. It’s a short burst of less than 3 minutes, but sufficiently prepares one for the rest of the EP. What particularly stands out for me is Cierra White’s drum performance. There’s rarely a moment where the furious double bass isn’t present, and the production accentuates the drums. Being of the brutal death metal variety, the drums must be a focus, which brings the performance of the drummer to light. She kills it.

The objective remains the same, so there’s a brief interlude called “The Unassailable” to break it up exactly midway through. With the rumbling bass, sitar, and clean vocals, it’s going to turn into a sledgehammer.

It does exactly that in “Eradication of the Asuras,” which begins with a low guttural. This style of metal is best when the bands whip into a groove, as they do around halfway. It unfortunately doesn’t last long, but nor does the track itself at slightly over 2 minutes.

The longest track, “Age of the Goddess” is next. It’s the longest at slightly over 4 minutes, but no less intense. It begins with a riff including pinch harmonics and gets into a great groove before the first minute passes. While this track is more plodding than the others, that’s only relative and most likely because of the runtime. Despite this, it also flies by quickly, so I have no idea what I’m saying anymore.

I always feel pressured by absolutely no one to make EP reviews shorter. I’ve barely done that, so congratulations are in order. As far as The Disfigured and the Divine goes, I’d like to see some more variety. While it’s a well-executed example of the brutal death metal style, it’s not much of a departure. The fact that it’s coming out on an Ohio label means I’m more likely to buy it. EPs however are just an appetizer and I’d much rather see what they can do on a full length.

 

[Visit the band's website]

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