Necrosis makes the most of the EP’s limited time. The opener “Inheriting Ruin” kicks off with explosive blast beats under bludgeoning but steady riffs. Vocalist/guitarist Chris Defaut (Divine Empire, Infernaeon) puts his full vocal range on display, unleashing a demonic tenor before dropping down to a guttural bass. The second track, “Cleansed Through Decay”, was previously released as the band’s debut single. Its high intensity builds momentum, concluding with an explosive pummeling of guitar and drums. Guitarist Steven Harger and bassist Kevin Gibbons, along with Defaut, have deep history as bandmates (Infernaeon), which is evident as the guitars riff and break in perfect unison. Drummer Mike Petrak (SWWAATS, Amon, Anarchus) lands double times and blast beats with a masterful balance of precision and artistry.

The title track “Necrosis” momentarily lightens the mood with opening dynamic melodies that carry throughout, even as the track descends into a death metal finale. “Behold the Bloodshed” lives up to its name by absolutely slaying for 4 minutes. A blistering guitar solo segues into a brutal ending complete with epic vocals. The fifth and final track “Bright Light” certainly doesn’t let up, switching from unrelenting thrash riffing to death metal sprints. A high-gain chromatic guitar solo takes hold at the halfway mark, providing the sonic “bright light” that guides this track and the EP to a fiery conclusion. 

Any fan of metal, even those with preferences beyond the death metal subgenre, can appreciate the unwavering intensity of Virulence and their thoughtfully tracked debut EP, Necrosis.

Necrosis drops officially on November 11^th but is available for preorder on the band’s Bandcamp page and is streaming on all major platforms.