When legendary Necrophagia vocalist Frank “Killjoy” Pucci passed in 2018, it spelled an end to the long-running death metal band, whose first demo came out in 1984. Though the band was finished, they were midway through completing an album that Killjoy had partially recorded his vocals for. Fortunately, Incantation vocalist John McEntee stepped in to help complete the record, alongside Necrophagia’s last live lineup—Serge Streltsov, Shawn Slusarek and Jake Arnette—and special guests Mirai Kawashima (keyboard), Sigh/ex-Necrophagia keyboardist Mirai Kawashima and ex-Necrophagia drummer Titta Tani.
Titled Moribundis Grim and set for release via Time to Kill Records on May 10, the album is primitive and raw, built on the final demo recordings Necrophagia were working on with Killjoy. They’re unmistakably him and the rawness adds a layer of authenticity, preserving his final performance as it happened.
“Moribundis Grim is Killjoy’s last recordings,” says guitarist Streltsov, “It feels good to finally unveil them to the world. It’s also an honor to have John McEntee from Incantation and the return of Titta Tani. With the their great help we were able to finish the record. Killjoy Lives! Gore Forever!”.
“This album is the Necrophagia’s legacy, it’s the perfect last goodbye made of passion and ‘rage’ for what happened to our brother,” adds Tani. “You will find the classic raw recordings which made him famous as the ‘Gorelord’ with screams from hell, bloody lyrics and creepy atmospheres. You won’t be disappointed, it’s Necrophagia!”
Adding to the tributes, McEntee expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pay tribute to his late friend and a death metal trailblazer.
“It was truly an honor for me to be involved in paying tribute to my fallen friend and source of inspiration, Killjoy, and Necrophagia,” he told Decibel. “As one of the forefathers of extreme death metal in the ‘80s, his music, especially his early works, has greatly inspired and influenced me and countless others. Being a part of honoring Killjoy in his passing and helping to shine the spotlight on him is very important to me. I know I speak for many when I say thank you, Killjoy, for many years of music and inspiration.
“It’s a privilege for me to play a role in preserving his memory and legacy, and I’m forever grateful for that.”
Moribundis Grim is out on Friday, but you can stream it below.
