This is a compilation from Kerasphorus, a face melting blackened death metal outfit from San Francisco. Currently, all of the members of Kerasphorus also reside within the better known Angelcorpse, although you’d be somewhat hard pressed to distinguish between the two.
Not that it matters because, like Angelcorpse, Kerasphorus deliver a raw, blackened death metal assault that’s designed to, well, melt your face off.
Founded by longtime Angelcorpse member Pete Helmkamp, Kerasphorus recently also brought equally longtime Angelcorpse member Gene Palubicki into the fold, along with current Angelcorpse drummer Ron Palmer. Er, maybe this is Angelcorpse, after all. OK, drummer James Read of Revenge was once a member, but, put it this way: if you like Angelcorpse, you’ll like Kerasphrous.
In fact, if you’re still with me, you’re probably already a fan of both bands, but, this self-titled compilation doesn’t offer any new material. Instead, Hells Headbangers Records has packaged together Kerasphorus’ entire catalog: the EPs Cloven Hooves At The Holocaust Dawn (2010) and Necronaut (2011) into a single, six song package with new artwork. If you’re not familiar with Kerasphorus, this is your chance to dive in.
Incidentally, Angelcorpse’s recent appearance at Maryland Death Fest last May was a triumph, and I fully expect Kerasphorus’ appearance (along with Angelcorpse) at this weekend’s Hells Headbash in Cleveland to equal that triumph. You’ve been warned.
(released September 2, 2016 on Hells Headbangers Records)
