By: Ashley Parrish Otteman
Plunging into the depths of ecological despair and human folly, "Terrasite"—Cattle Decapitation's latest release—emerges not just as an album but as a profound, unsettling critique of our times. Released on May 12, 2023, by Metal Blade Records, the band dives deeper into the abyss of human darkness, continuing the narrative previously explored in albums such as "Death Atlas." As a devoted fan, I find this album extends those themes, critiquing our misanthropic tendencies and environmental negligence while painting an even grimmer picture of dystopian futures. Each note seems to dare us to look away, fully aware that we won't—or can't.
The term "Terrasite," coined by vocalist Travis Ryan, captures the album's critique by portraying humanity as Earth's consumers—its devourers, to be exact. This neologism combines "Terra" (Earth) and "site" (from the Greek "sitos," meaning food), setting the thematic stage for the album's journey and acting as a metaphor for our parasitic relationship with the planet. Upon first hearing it, I was struck by a mix of awe and discomfort, attesting to its potent impact. "Terrasite" goes beyond critique; it haunts.
Musically, "Terrasite" is a testament to Cattle Decapitation's evolution, showcasing their blend of deathgrind, technical death metal, and progressive elements. Established in the extreme metal scene since the late 1990s, the band, featuring Travis Ryan, guitarists Josh Elmore and Belisario Dimuzio, bassist Olivier Pinard, and drummer David McGraw, continues to impress with intense brutality, technical ability, and thematic depth. This album signifies a notable progression in their sound, emphasizing progressive elements and the distinctive use of Ryan's 'goblin' vocals—a unique, almost clean singing style that maintains a harsh, rasping quality, which adds a distinct layer to their sound.
Ryan's vocal performance, blending blackened snarls, death growls, and his unique clean singing, stands out. The intricate guitar work, deep bass lines, and complex blast beats, while retaining a melodic sensibility, show the band's ability to push extreme metal into new, progressive territories.
The opening track, “Terrasitic Adaptation,” sets the tone with its slow, moody buildup, culminating in a ferocious scream. Ryan's lyrics, as evocative as ever, draw listeners into a reflective state with powerful imagery and compelling delivery. On tracks like “…and the World Will Go on Without You,” and “The Insignificants,” Ryan and the guitarists manage to inject beauty into extreme metal, a genre not typically associated with such a descriptor. Their choruses break new ground, intertwining harsh realities with unexpected elegance.
Songs like "Dead End Residents" and "A Photic Doom" highlight the band's technical mastery and creative songwriting. Pinard's bass lines and McGraw's blast beats lay the foundation, while Elmore and Dimuzio's clean guitar solos energize and engage listeners with their precision.
The album culminates with "Just Another Body," a ten-minute epic showcasing Cattle Decapitation's full sound spectrum. This track starts with a restrained piano intro, leading to a dark, emotionally charged conclusion. This masterpiece encapsulates their ability to blend intense technicality with thematic depth, leaving listeners pondering long after the final note fades.
If I must have one complaint, it's that I craved more of Ryan's infectious goblin singing. There's something about this distinct sound that delves deep into my psyche, making me truly appreciate the artistry behind extreme vocals. In my opinion, Travis Ryan outperforms most, likely due to his willingness to experiment and his unapologetic authenticity as the strange, intriguing creature he is.
Overall, "Terrasite" feels like more than just another album. It’s a critical reflection on our times, a musical journey demanding attention, and a call to consciousness. Cattle Decapitation has again proven their ability to merge brutal sounds with deep meaning, making "Terrasite" essential for those willing to confront the darker realities of our existence and ponder our shaping future.