Returning with their fourth album, Absolvere, Pennsylvania death metal maulers Signs of the Swarm pull no punches as they hurtle out of the starting gate and straight into the pulverizing opener “Hymns ov Invocation.” A ferocious introduction to the album, it’s safe to say that Absolvere isn’t going to be a pretty listen. Their second album to feature the delightful vocal talents of Dave Simonich, Absolvere sees the frontman deliver another top-notch performance. Whether Simonich is howling horrifying screams or saliva-dripping gutturals, listening to him roar and spew his way through the festering “Totem” or the sludgy terror of “Revelations ov a Silent King,” this is a jaw-dropping performance and one that is thankfully matched by some A-game musicianship. However, if you dig your way th...
