WATCH MY DYING Returns with Egyenes Kerülő - A Bold Reinvention of Industrial Metal

Hungarian extreme metal stalwarts Watch My Dying return with Egyenes Kerőlő, an album that cements their status as a boundary-pushing force in the underground metal scene. With 25 years under their belt, WMD has built a reputation for their technical yet groove-laden approach, uniquely infused with industrial grit and philosophical Hungarian lyrics. Their latest full-length album is their first since 2009’s Moebius, marking a triumphant return after more than a decade without a major release.

At first glance, Egyenes Kerőlő might seem like an atmospheric, avant-garde experience, but it quickly reveals its aggressive, mechanical underbelly. The opening title track sets the tone with pulsating industrial rhythms before launching into “Kopogtatni Egy Tükrön,” where jagged riffs and unpredictable time signatures take center stage. The band’s hallmark precision is on full display, as they balance complex arrangements with an innate sense of groove.

A particular highlight comes in “Mindenáron a Béke Se Kell,” which shifts from suffocating intensity to eerie, melodic interludes, reflecting WMD’s ability to merge brutality with emotional depth. Meanwhile, “A Sötétség Legalján” explores a more meditative side, leading into the album’s closing track, “Utolsó Fejezet,” a composition that drifts into ethereal dimensions, leaving the listener in a state of contemplation.

One of Egyenes Kerőlő’s greatest strengths is its ability to keep its experimentation digestible. While many industrial-leaning metal acts can feel suffocating or overly mechanical, WMD’s songwriting ensures that every track retains its unique identity while contributing to the album’s overarching atmosphere. The influence of past collaborations can be felt in the album’s progressive structuring and dynamic shifts. Still, WMD never loses their core identity, proving that their voice remains distinct even within Hungary’s rich avant-metal landscape.

While the album delivers a thrilling ride, there are moments where one wishes for deeper thematic exploration. Some tracks, despite their short and direct nature, could have benefited from extended run times to develop their motifs more fully. Additionally, the industrial elements, while well-executed, may alienate listeners who prefer a more organic sound. However, these are minor critiques in an otherwise compelling record.

Egyenes Kerőlő is an engaging and thought-provoking album that proves Watch My Dying is far from a nostalgia act. Instead, they return with renewed vigor, offering a fresh perspective on industrial-infused extreme metal. This is not an album for the faint of heart, but for those seeking something beyond the typical, Egyenes Kerőlő is a journey worth taking. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Hungarian metal scene, this release is a testament to WMD’s enduring creativity and relevance.

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