LORD MANTIS

Universal Death Church PROFOUND LORE

Controversy-courting sludgeflingers return to the depths

That Lord Mantis have returned is a surprise, both because of the controversy surrounding 2014’s Death Mask due to its artwork accused of transphobia or the falling out between members that broke up the band two years ago. They make for a tainted legacy that, for a band who create caustic and ferocious sludge, only adds to the attraction.

Universal Death Church is a devastating comeback that touches on that chaos, and in Qliphotic Alpha those acerbic tendencies are myriad in the searing guitars and acidic screams, while Hole brings dissonant vibes that prompt a deep sense of dread – exactly what Lord Mantis are aiming for. ■■■■■■■■■■

FOR FANS OF: Dragged Into Sunlight, Indian, Coffinworm CHERYL CARTER