AntiMozdeBeast - The Vagrant Unkempt Grave

AntiMozdeBeast - The Vagrant Unkempt Grave


 

Today I am reviewing the most recent AntiMozdebeast full length. Self released May 15th. AntiMozdebeast is a talented vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, song writer, producer. He is an all in one, jack of all trades. 

Since 2019 this Florida musician has worked tirelessly. Self releasing over a dozen full lengths. Not to mention various EP's and Singles. Creating a chaotic, atmospheric mixture of industrial, electronic, goth, synth, black metal.

The Vagrant Unkempt Grave is led by "Solitude". Combining thunderous drum and bass, and a chaotic whirlwind of pulsating synth and keys. While the vocals recite an almost cult-like chant. Occasionally interspersed with the primal screams so often found in AntiMozdeBeast music.

The strengths of AntiMozdeBeast are his ability to create discomfort, hellish soundscapes relying on heavy pulsating synth, drums and bass. These are often driven by occasional melodic, soaring arpeggios, and keyboard sections.

There is a brilliance amongst the chaos. It is very well thought out. Meticulously planned to draw you into the world that AntiMozdeBeast perceives. 

I have to admit, the mix on The Vagrant Unkempt Grave is not the best. AntiMozdebeast can and has done better previously. The mixing here feels rushed, as such alot of the unique melodies that are interwoven through the booming, pulsing soundscapes are harder to pick out.

This album also features some of the longest tracks to date. Possibly the longest running time as well. For those unfamiliar with AntiMozdeBeast this may seem daunting. "Torn Mentality" and "Conclave" are both ten minutes. However, they are honestly the best songs on the album.

"Solitude" goes well over fourteen minutes in length. Myself being a fan of AntiMozdeBeast and long time friend. Even I sat down looked at the length of the song and lyrics and had to take a deep breath.

This isn't necessarily a bad thing. It feels as if The Vagrant Unkempt Grave almost requires some familiarity with AntiMozdeBeast work to date. For anyone new with fresh ears and eyes on this. I think alot of new listeners would rather look through the back catalog than start here.

All that aside this album is a mesmerizing and hypnotic ride. Honestly, I feel like "Solitude" should have been placed later in the album. "Temple of Vindication" and "Torn Mentality" are much more enjoyable. 

They features some incredible mind bending synth and keyboard melodies. Riding side by side with booming drum and bass. The vocals take on a Slayer-esque chanting quality I really enjoy.

"Interlude" is a fairly standard instrumental. That does its job well. Breaking up the pace of the album. Instead of these meticulously crafted inspired Goliath songs. We have a frenetic, techno-dance inspired short reprieve. 

As a listener this is one of AntiMozdeBeast best choices. This is, I think, one if the best instrumentals he has ever written.

I feel like The Vagrant Unkempt Grave has an undecided approach. The obvious goal is the same. I think some of the mixing and the choice to open the album with a fourteen minute long song could have been thought out better. 

Even if I think the mixing feels a bit rushed and incomplete.  Overall as the entire album, it feels deep, there is a message here that even I am still hoping to find. I cannot say enough good things about how truly brilliant the music is.

It may not be for everyone. This album has some of the most interesting and unique electronica and synth melodies. All nestled in together with these dissonant thumping, pulsing whirlwind soundscapes. 

You can find The Vagrant Unkempt Grave and others through the links below. I would also like to give a boost to "The Ritual" EP and "The Land Of Nod".


Antimozdebeast Links:

Bandcamp

Spotify

YouTube

BlueSky

Apple Music

Twitter

Threads

Instagram

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