“Carrion Vael Delivers a Powerful ‘Slay Utterly’ Review”
Richmond, Indiana-based band Carrion Vael has firmly established its presence in the metal scene with a consistent release schedule. Since their debut album, Resurrection of the Doomed, in 2017, the quintet has released a new album roughly every two years. Their latest offering, Slay Utterly, marks their fifth release and promises to deliver an aggressive auditory experience.
Carrion Vael’s New Release: Slay Utterly
Slay Utterly dives into dark narratives, exploring the perspectives of serial killers and their victims. Although not marketed as a concept album, each track provides a unique take on these morbid themes. This ambitious project illustrates Carrion Vael’s dedication to weaving tales of brutality through their music.
A Look at Their Musical Evolution
In fewer than ten years, Carrion Vael has showcased their versatility. Their previous albums include:
- Resurrection of the Doomed (2017)
- God Killer (2020)
- Abhorrent Obsessions
- Cannibals Anonymous
With each release, the band experiments with various styles. The technical prowess seen in Abhorrent Obsessions pairs with the deathcore influences of Cannibals Anonymous in Slay Utterly. The aggressive sound merges the musical influences of bands like The Black Dahlia Murder and Allegaeon.
Performance Highlights and Soundscapes
Slay Utterly features impressive instrumentation. Guitarists Trenton Limburg and Ryan Kurder masterfully execute intricate solos while drummer Matt Boehner exhibits relentless energy. Vocalist Travis Lawson Purcell demonstrates a range of techniques, including melodic cleans and rapid-fire growls, reminiscent of bands like Archspire.
Notably, the album showcases tracks that highlight the band’s sonic diversity. “Truth or Consequences” opens with acoustic elements before transitioning into harmonized solos. Subtle orchestral arrangements enhance several tracks, adding depth to the overall sound.
Areas for Improvement
Despite the album’s strengths, it faces some shortcomings. The production lacks dynamic range, which can detract from the listening experience. Alex Arford’s bass, in particular, suffers from being overshadowed in the mix. Furthermore, while some tracks exhibit originality, others risk feeling derivative, lacking a cohesive identity.
A deeper exploration of the album’s themes could also enhance the impact of the music. Many listeners, including the reviewer, were unaware of the serial killer concept until learning about it after multiple listens.
Final Thoughts and Rating
Carrion Vael has crafted a robust forty-two minutes of music in Slay Utterly. The album displays enough technical skill and rhythmic aggression to warrant attention. However, there is room for growth in production quality and thematic depth. The band’s ability to harness their potential effectively may lead to even greater achievements in their upcoming releases.
Rating: Good
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Label: Unique Leader Records
