Blood of the Prophets has rapidly distinguished itself in the metal community with melodic fretwork, elements of thrash, and forays into synthesizers. Formed in 2008 in Toledo, Ohio, this sextet's standouts are drummer Will Clark and keyboardist Elizabeth Croak, who affirm the intensity via blast beats, heavy cadence, and gothic piano details. Blood of the Prophets places artistry above meatheadedness and intricate arrangements in lieu of growled vocals and thunderous guitars.
France's Nightshade also employs keyboards, which adds an operatic air to Sebastien Manceau's violent screeches. It's heavy on brutality, low on the Coquilles St. Jacques, but delicious all around. The group's The Beginning of Eradication album should be dropping soon, and given the length of the tour for these groups, the appeal of death metal is widespread and growing.
