As a vegan reviewer, the irony of delving into Viande's latest album, 'Monument aux morts', is not lost on me. This band, with a name that translates to 'meat', serves up a metaphorical feast of brutal and chewy sounds. It's an intriguing contrast, and one that sets the tone for an album that delves into the depths of doom, death, and black metal.
The Evolution of Viande's Sound
'Monument aux morts' builds upon the foundation laid by their predecessor, 'L'Abime dévore les âmes'. While the stylistic tracks remain similar, with a heavy influence from the Incantation school of death metal, Viande has added a unique twist. The disorienting flourishes and atmospheric elements create a soundscape that is both grand and menacing, especially on slower tracks like 'Linceul Immense' and 'Une cage d'os'.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's ability to create a darker, more dissonant atmosphere. The omnipresent echo and feedback, which some might find overwhelming, actually enhance the sense of horror and smothering intensity. It's a bold move that sets Viande apart.
Unsettling Compositions
Viande's compositions have evolved, becoming deeper and more nuanced. The guitars twist and turn, creating gut-wrenching patterns that leave a lasting impression. The tremolos add an eerie shiver, especially on tracks like 'Linceul immense'.
The atmospheric side of the album is intelligently crafted. The use of reverb enhances the horror-filled sounds of screams and synthetic whines, as heard on 'Sacrifice ardent' and 'L'esprit cachot'. These elements create a malevolent minor melody, offering a brief respite in the mire of churning scales and feedback.
One thing that immediately stands out is the band's ability to create compelling grooves amidst the chaos. Tracks like 'Linceul Immense' and 'Cercueil de vase' showcase this perfectly, providing a unique and oddly mesmerizing contrast to the overall dark and frightening texture.
Maintaining the Grip
Despite the album's strengths, 'Monument aux morts' fails to maintain a consistent grip on the listener. The production, while fittingly brutal and filthy for the genre, flattens the atmospheric side. The majority of the tracks follow a similar pattern, with effective components like tremolos and minimalistic drums, but the repetition across an hour-long runtime causes a blurring effect.
In my opinion, this is where Viande could have taken a step further. The album hints at a masterwork of horror, with germs of dark brilliance, but it needs a tighter structure and a richer master to truly showcase its potential.
A Promising Future
'Monument aux morts' is a step in the right direction for Viande. It has a more commanding presence than their debut, and the band has shown that they are capable of creating truly gripping moments. With a little more refinement and a focus on stitching together their unique elements, Viande could deliver a masterpiece that leaves a lasting impact on the metal scene.
Rating: Good
Release Date: July 31st, 2026
Label: Transcending Obscurity Records
Formats: Bandcamp, Facebook
From my perspective, this album is a promising sign of things to come, and I look forward to seeing how Viande continues to evolve and push the boundaries of their sound.
