As if you really needed another reason to check out Dark Descent’s sub-label, Unspeakable Axe, here comes Kingsport, Tennessee’s Manic Scum, with their banger of an EP, Acidic Remains, showcasing an  authentic take on late `80’s/early `90’s old-school death metal. From what I can tell, Acidic Remains was originally self-released back in 2014 in a digital only format. Though I had never heard of Manic Scum, I’m more than happy that the group at Unspeakable Axe had, and saw enough merit in the album to give it a proper release, because this is some straight up, good shit. Imagine the Floridian death call of Cannibal Corpse, Death, Morbid Angel, Malevolent Creation, and Solstice, circa 1991, with a bit of Suffocation, wrapped up with some thrash sensibilities thrown in for good measure, and you will have a pretty decent idea of what Manic Scum brings to the table.

From the bludgeoning opener, “Strapped to the Gurney”, to the Altars of Madness meets Hell Awaits, frantic, fast paced attack of “Necromutation”, up to closer and title track, “Acidic Remains”, with its Testament-like beginning morphing into a Cannibal Corpse rager, Manic Scum brings the goods. Sure, it has been done before, but damn it, when it’s good, it’s good. Of the EP’s four tracks, I’d have to say “Human Pulp” is easily the highlight. The Floridian vibe runs strong, with the song sounding much like a magnificent clash of Eaten Back to Life and Leprosy. In fact, the Death influence at the 1:47 minute mark to the 2:50 is simply awesome. Nothing fancy, just a solid old-school beat-down. Personally, I wish the leads/solos on Acidic Remains had a little more depth to them, but as they stand, they occupy a decent middle ground style, somewhere between Rick Rozz and James Murphy, maybe leaning a bit more to the former.

It really is a shame that these four tracks and their fifteen minutes go by so quickly, leaving you wanting at least four more songs. I imagine this re-release is to introduce, or re-introduce, the metal listening world to Manic Scum, as the group does have new material coming out soon. My advice is to get this EP, and mark your calendars for their new release, because if you’re like me, and love that sound of the original death metal explosion, then this band is surely one you will want to keep tabs on.

[Visit the band's website]

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