Artist: Clactonian
Country: Italy
Label: Prehistoric Sounds
Formats: Demo Tape
Year: 2025
‘Dea Madre’ was the short debut demo of this Italian Black/Death Metal band and displayed the steps of a decent, yet not completely convincing band. Their aim was clear, but the execution wasn’t quite there yet. Of course, we are forgiving when it comes to first demos, you have to give bands time and space to develop their craft and style. So, as a fan of the genre I was looking forward to new music from this foursome.
If these opening words might sounded harsh, that was certainly not the intention. ‘Dea Madre’ is a solid demo, but it felt that they had not enough self-esteem to show their true colours. There were loads of idea that came from the same angles as Proclamation, Black Witchery, Von, Blasphemy, Beherit and the likes. But, the “problem” was that Clactonian sounded a bit too neat, too smooth and overall lacked the scorching violence of their musical examples.
Now we are a few months later and the band returns with a new demo. And, to start off with a conclusion: ‘Everlasting Paleolithic’ is a considerable step up from their first feat. Basically on every level the band outdid themselves, as a result this second recording is definitely more up there with the originators of the genre. Not only does Clactonian sound less hesitant and timid, but also when it comes to the overall sound and presence the band comes across much more convincing.
The Bestial Black/Death Metal genre (or War Metal, if you prefer) isn’t quite the genre for renewing or general finesse, so it all comes down to the brutality and savageness of the band and compositions. In only two songs, now clocking in merely at six minutes, the band show what they are capable of. Although they covered Von on ‘Dea Madre’, their music has much more in common with the early works of Necrowretch. Not only does it lean much more on the primitive fundamentals of the genre, but especially on the vocal department they share an obvious resemblance with the Frenchmen.
As a whole, ‘Everlasting Paleolithic’ is indeed an undeniable step forward and shows a more mature band that is increasingly able to materialize their musical visions. For me personally, in terms of production, it could certainly be a bit messier, but these Italians are offering a more than enjoyable ride with this second feat.
