Defiled's ninth album, Altered State, marks a significant shift in their sound, moving away from the chaotic and uncategorizable nature of their earlier work towards a more controlled and refined approach. This transformation is evident in the album's structure, which, while still retaining the band's signature wackiness, is more focused and engaging. The album's rhythm changes, odd time signatures, and off-kilter grooves are still present, but they are now seamlessly integrated into a cohesive and memorable listening experience.
One of the key strengths of Altered State is its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation. The album draws heavily from the '90s death metal scene, with nods to Sepultura's classic era, while still incorporating modern elements that keep the album fresh and relevant. This blend of old and new is particularly evident in the guitar work of Yusuke Sumita and Sinichiro Hamada, who create catchy and muscular riffs that are both familiar and exciting.
Vocally, Altered State showcases a solid and deathly growl with a hint of groove metal grit, delivered by Keisuke Hamada. While his phrasing is consistent and abrasive, it could benefit from more variation to stand out from the instrumentation. The bass excursions by Takachita Nakajima, however, are a welcome addition, bringing back some of the low-end grooves that defined the band's early years, albeit with a more balanced production that gives his bass the space it deserves.
Despite some minor criticisms, Altered State is a significant improvement over the band's previous releases. It successfully sheds the missteps of the past, packing the album with memorable material while still delivering the patented twists and turns that have defined Defiled's sound. The album is hard to love but undoubtedly entertaining, marking a crucial step in the band's course correction and a return to form.
Rating: Good
DR: 6 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: Season of Mist
Websites: defiledjapan.bandcamp.com | facebook.com/defiled
Releases Worldwide: June 12th, 2026
