Horror-themed Death Metallers Psycho are clearly fans of Italian horror films and Necrophagia. The fact that Psycho hails from Singapore and has a female vocalist adds to the band’s novelty but at the base level they are simply mid-paced chunky Death Metal.

The chunky aspect really has to do with the production.  The bass chugs and dominates the bottom end.  It’s strikingly audible and adds to the barbaric sound.  As for barbaric, the music focuses on the slower aspect of the Death Metal genre and lets the riffs carry the brutality instead of an endless blastbeat assault.  The fast majority of riffs chug like a Peterbuilt trying to ascend a steep grade. Vocalist Penny Torture has a great rasp and even once and a while hits a few high notes.  But bassist/backing vocalist Jy does less backing vocals and more of a dual approach, delivering a much more guttural approach that frequently drowns out Ms. Torture.

Musically, the band is tight.  The title track, “All Are Dead” and “Dr. Satan” groove and grind nicely.  “Meat Slit Grinder” shows more depth with some great bass fills, tempo changes and some sinister shred from guitarist Bryan John. “Revenge of the Raging Whore” starts with a terrifying roar from Ms. Torture before unraveling in to a rather atypical track that moves nicely between complex and simplistic moments. “Lords of Slaughter” and “Mother of Tears” keep up the chugging and bludgeoning while “Demon Deathtrance” again shows the band know who to churn out some more complex, even slightly technical mid-paced Death Metal.

Pain Addict Pigs is a bit too short but sweet enough. The band knows what they are doing and it is a solid debut.  And fans of Necrophagia, Gorelord, and Jungle Rot may find plenty to enjoy here.

TRACK LISTING

*By clicking "Submit" you agree to the following Terms of Use. You agree not to post any material that is obscene, slanderous, or threatening, or that may violate any law of your country of origin or the United States or of international law. Should you wish to restrict viewing of your email address by third parties, you must select "Hide My Email." You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Metal Psalter from any claims, actions, suits, damages, or other costs arising out of any breach of these Terms of Use.

*Comments:

1.  Intro (The First Incantation)
2.  Pain Addict Pigs
3.  All Are Dead
4.  Meat Slit Grinder
5.  Dr. Satan
6.  Revenge of the Raging Whore
7.  Lords of Slaughter
8.  Mater Lachrymarum…
      Mother of Tears
9.  Demon Deathtrance

Total playing time:  33:54

Release Date: January 25, 2011
Label: Moribund Cult Records

Psycho - Pain Addict Pigs

Reviewer: Rottenbucher

June 1, 2011