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What excellent debut albums can lack in maturity they usually make up with ambitious experimentation and unbridled gusto. That is to say, innovation and high energy are key to offsetting any spoiling amateurism. Minneapolis-based blackened death metal band Suffering Hour shines in this department. Their upcoming debut album In Passing Ascension rips furiously, and you can stream the penultimate track "Procession To Obscure Infinity" below.

With its shrieking intro and blast beat-laden climax, "Procession To Obscure Infinity" traverses a non-linear path toward groovy impact. Behind the scenes, a dynamic drum performance leans not on repetition but sprawling passages that gel in motion with the deathly growls and howls. Suffering Hour nail the precise midpoint between black and death metal -- the overlay of death metal constructions on black metal intensities -- carried on continuously varied guitar licks which return to catchy hooks for maximum excitability. There's even a breakdown-esque moment that substitutes slamming rhythms for a high-pitched breakaway.

In Passing Ascension attacks listeners with quick-shifting barrages and unexpected turns. It's an involved listen while still resolutely jammable, meaning the musical content is well-embedded in the overall flow. Live, the album's tracks are bound to stir mosh pits, but there is also plenty to decode and deconstruct during more careful listens. Suffering Hour innovates with overt technicality (progressive in its self-involvement) while also maintaining a clear, almost classic feel. Long-time fans of blackened death metal will relish in all the necessary throwbacks, and newcomers will discover a fresh take on the always interesting intersection of these two genres.

Stream "Procession To Obscure Infinity" below. In Passing Ascension releases on May 26 via Blood Harvest Records. Preorder the album here.

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