Whitechapel is back with Hymns in Dissonance, an album that redefines what it means to be brutal in the world of deathcore. This record isn’t just another release; it’s a statement. In an era where vocalists like Will Ramos (Lorna Shore), Alex Terrible (Slaughter to Prevail), and Ben Duerr (Shadow of Intent) are pushing the boundaries of extreme metal, Bozeman returns with a vengeance. He reminds the world exactly why he’s one of the most respected frontmen in the game, proving that Whitechapel isn’t just keeping up with the new wave of deathcore—they’re leading it.
A Relentless Journey into Darkness
The album opens with Prisoner 666, a track that not only sets the tone but also introduces an incredibly unique vocal technique by Phil Bozeman. His growls and screams are delivered in such a way that, in some parts of the song, he actually sings the lyrics backwards. It’s an unsettling effect that heightens the intensity of the track and sets the stage for the rest of the album. The song combines fierce riffs with Bozeman’s signature gutturals, all while maintaining a sense of melody that ties back to their earlier work. Prisoner 666 is an anthem for those who like their music dark, aggressive, and with a sense of foreboding mystery.
The title track, Hymns in Dissonance, continues the onslaught, offering a chilling portrayal of the rise of a cult leader. The intensity doesn’t let up as Bozeman once again delivers some of his most powerful vocal work, layering guttural screams on top of devastatingly heavy riffs. The track’s structure evolves in unexpected ways, culminating in an earth-shattering breakdown in Drop F, marking a dramatic departure from their usual tuning. This isn’t just a breakdown—it’s a full-on attack. The dissonance that pervades the track mirrors the chaos of the cult’s rituals and perfectly encapsulates the dark themes running throughout the album.
The first single, A Visceral Retch, explores the Sin of Gluttony, channelling Whitechapel’s earlier Somatic Defilement style. It’s filled with grotesque, almost guttural guitar riffs and pitch-shifting whammy effects that give it a menacing, otherworldly feel. This song captures the feeling of indulgence and excess in its heaviest form, and Bozeman’s growls hit harder than ever, embodying the disgust and hunger of the track’s subject matter.
Hate Cult Ritual stands as a highlight of the album, embodying the Sin of Wrath. This track takes the listener on an unforgiving journey, using older Drop A tuning to bring a level of aggression that sets it apart from the rest of the record. With no breakdowns, it is a relentless force of nature, built on evil chants and hypnotic riffs. It’s the kind of song that could fuel a rampage, and its fury encapsulates the violent climax of the album’s story.
Mammoth God brings the Sin of Greed to life with its sprawling melodies and thunderous riffs. This track stands out not just for its intensity but for its melodic guitar solo, a rare moment of brilliance that adds a layer of rock flair to the deathcore foundation. Alex Wade’s guitar work here is particularly noteworthy, and it shows that the band is willing to push their sound into new territories while staying true to their roots.
The closing track, Nothing Is Coming for Any of Us, is a fitting finale to the album’s journey through the sins. As the earth bears the cult leader’s child, the track’s swelling tension builds towards an apocalyptic crescendo. The song’s chaotic structures, combined with its eerie melodies, make it a fittingly disturbing way to close out the album. It’s a haunting and powerful finale, leaving listeners with a sense of unease that lingers long after the last note fades.
Final Thoughts: A Deathcore Masterpiece
Hymns in Dissonance is not just an album—it’s an experience. Whitechapel have crafted a brutal, complex record that is as melodic as it is heavy, seamlessly blending elements of deathcore, death metal, and even moments of melodic death metal. The album doesn’t just revisit their roots; it takes them to new extremes, pushing their sound forward without losing the raw aggression that made them legends in the first place.
Phil Bozeman’s vocal delivery is nothing short of astounding, especially with his innovative use of reversed lyrics on Prisoner 666 and Hymns in Dissonance. His screams are as guttural and ferocious as ever, and the album’s atmosphere is thick with darkness and despair. Whether it’s the brutality of Hate Cult Ritual or the haunting final moments of Nothing Is Coming for Any of Us, Whitechapel has delivered a record that demands attention.
This album is a testament to Whitechapel’s ability to evolve without compromising the essence of what makes them one of the heaviest bands on the planet. If you’ve ever doubted their place at the top of the deathcore hierarchy, Hymns in Dissonance leaves no room for questioning. This is their domain, and with this album, Whitechapel proves once again that they are unstoppable.
10/10 – An essential album for any deathcore fan. Whitechapel is at their best here.
Whitechapel’s upcoming album, Hymns in Dissonance, is set to be released on March 7, 2025. Pre-orders are currently available through various platforms:
- Metal Blade Records: Offers physical copies and exclusive merchandise. Metal Blade Records
- Aussie Pre Orders Click Here! Artist First
