Here is proof positive that the dead can return. Swedish death metal champions Grave were supposedly buried back in 1996 but apparently the internment was a bit premature, as their rotting corpse has risen here in the new millenium.

Their aptly titled comeback brings us back to the early days of the death metal movement, when morbid atmosphere and bulldozing power was much more important than technical wizardry or insane speed. The nine proper tracks here barely move past half speed but carry an immense amount of impact. Listening to "Back From the Grave" is like getting slowly crushed by a tank inch by inch. Lead guitar solos are mostly squalling compendiums of feedback and Ola Lindgren's vocals are sick, sick, sick! They are some of the most effective death vocals in the business.

Anybody looking for challenging, avant-garde riffing or squeaky clean guitar tones can take a hike. But for those evil souls thirsting for Swedish death metal done the classic way, the return of Grave is indeed a cause for dark celebration! 

Note: If you get the limited edition of this CD, you'll also get a bonus CD containing all 3 of Grave's early demos, "Sick Disgust Eternal", "Sexual Mutilation" and "Anatomia Corporis Humani". Fun for all the family, it's a good bonus for those longing for the early days of Swedish death metal.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2003 Year Book Volume 2 at https://garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2003-and-2004/.