Mexican death thrash OGs Mortuary—formed way back in 1998, where their original run lasted until 1997 before reuniting full-time in 2008—are staking their claim to modern supremacy with Great Black Earth, their first release since 2012. Mortuary haven’t lost a step in their time out of the studio, perfectly resurrecting the primitive early days sound of extreme metal.
Guitarist Alberto Martinez is the sole remaining classic member and it shows in the songwriting. Each guitar riff has a throwback feeling, calling to mind Death by Metal along with the wild thrashines of early Slayer, Sepultura and Sarcófago. Drummer Mando Opposus also nails the vintage feeling, both in his approach to playing and in the production.
“After years in the shadows, Mortuary returns not reborn but rotten, sharpened, and louder than ever,” Mortuary tellDecibel. “Great Black Earth is everything that festered while we were gone. Working with HPGD Productions means efficiency, trust and alignment. When trust exists between artist and label, decisions become clearer, creativity flows faster, and success is built on a shared vision rather than control”
On Great Black Earth, Mortuary make up for lost time by getting right to business. The four songs within are sharp and well-written, and you can listen to them now.