For some reason, much like with their debut, even though it is unoriginal, derivative and simplistic, I enjoy Severed Eyes… immensely. Killjoy and Frediablo have successfully brought gore and splatter death metal to the black metal scene. There are, of course, many bands incorporating the sounds of American death metal but Killjoy delights in the sights as well.
Subtlety is not an issue with Wurdulak, shock value is, and their fascination with “b” horror shows through again. Is this new and thought provoking? Of course not, not meant to be. Is it the best of this style? No, but it is well played and fun, beyond that I do not think much else was intended. A nostalgia trip to the mid ’80s, an era Killjoy has never left, which is a good thing. I particularly enjoy the thrash riffs in “Unified Global Misanthropy” and the simple rhythms are memorable. Slayer would be proud of this one.The album ends with “Severed Eyes of Possession” a King Diamond affair, squealing pigs, howling wolves, and twisted stuttered whispers.
The title track is the most demented, other memorable tracks include “Unified Global Misanthropy” and “Perpetual Domination.” This makes for a short review, but it boils down to liking Killjoy’s projects or hating them. If you liked Ceremony in Flames you will love this one. The only real difference is in the vocals. Killjoy and Maniac split vocals instead of together on each song, but since their styles are so similar it is not really a noticeable difference. Even the cover art is a continuation. Patrick Tremblay’s nun has now lost here eyes, pecked out by a crow. One note of interest from the band, Wurdulak, a side project since their formation in 2000, is now “not a side project of any member.”
