Coming from warm and sunny Lisbon, DOWNFALL OF MANKIND knows the exact trick for heating up the air with their slamming symphonic deathcore. Despite being formed only five years ago, in 2019, DOWNFALL OF MANKIND isn’t just an up-and-coming band anymore. With all their powerful work and obvious achievements, they can already be seen as the kings of Portuguese deathcore. The band has reached an international fan base, but that’s not all. Being scouted by the American record label, Seek & Strike, and taken under its care is another success for the band. What’s more, at the beginning of 2023, they announced Matthew K. Heafy, known as the frontman of TRIVIUM, as their official producer and band manager. However, this shouldn’t be too surprising, considering the insane talent behind the name DOWNFALL OF MANKIND.
With their freshly released album, “Purgatory,” on June 14th, 2024, the band delivers extraordinary deathcore. What makes this album unusual is the combination of ballad segments, melodic guitar solos, slam, and symphonic elements, harsh and clean vocals, and pounding breakdowns, all layered on top of brutal deathcore. In contrast to the band’s first EP, “The Path of Human Existence,” (2020) and their debut album, “Vile Birth,” (2022), the newest release stands out with its diverse tracks. While the Portuguese musicians demonstrated their potential in their earlier works, “Purgatory” introduces a more creative side of DOWNFALL OF MANKIND. Every track is distinct, making each one exceptional in its own right. I believe Matthew K. Heafy’s influence as their producer is crystal clear, which makes this album even more interesting and exciting to explore. However, the band maintains its unique perspective on music-making, appealing to a wide audience. Fans of bands like DISTANT and GOJIRA will likely find themselves captivated by DOWNFALL OF MANKIND as well.
Now… Are you expecting an explosive mix of rapid blast beats and smacking breakdowns? “Umbral” may be just a bit over two minutes of epicness, but it definitely does its job of rousing interest as an opening track. Beginning with march-like strains and a whispering narrator on top, it introduces us to “Downfall 2024” and gives us a clear hint of what’s to come.
Followed by “Purgatory,” the title track kicks in directly, with no hesitation. Evident progression in the first half continues until Matthew K. Heafy joins in, delivering a resonant chorus. Next, “God of Nothingness,” hits hard with its blasting blackened symphonic deathcore segments, sure to make crowds go wild at live gigs. This track showcases the great talent of drummer Pedro Peralta with his intense playing, and vocalist Lucas Bishop with his outstanding guttural growls.
“Weard ov Hell” stands out as one of the most contrasting and captivating tracks on the album. The precise, choppy rhythm throughout is striking, and the high-pitched screams in the chorus add to its impact. Additionally, a solo by Arthur Baptista blends smoothly with the melody we hear at the beginning and end of the song. The final breakdown, transitioning into electric tunes, is a perfect finish to “Weard ov Hell.”
Like the band’s effort in delivering big choruses, “Self Loathing” differentiates itself with clean vocals and a pleasant melody, slowing down and softening some of the song’s brutality. The sheer ferocity in “Down The Barrel of Madness” is enhanced by symphonic leads, adding diversity to its sound. The beautiful balladic transition by Diogo Gates is perhaps the biggest surprise in this piece.
Then, “As Much As Your Sorrow” impresses with orchestral motifs in the background and a memorable chorus that sticks after just one listen. “Blinding Rage” follows a similar approach, with mellifluous singing nestled between smashing growls and heavy drums.
Continuing with “Cease,” this song seems to push back against the previous mood, returning us to deathcore viciousness. Symphonic elements, a delicate guitar solo, a crushing breakdown, and a balanced ending—this is what “Cease” delivers. It transitions smoothly into the outstanding closing track, “Consumed By Strife.” This is one of the most contrasting pieces on the “Purgatory” album. As a total departure from the dominant deathcore style, DOWNFALL OF MANKIND opens a new, peaceful environment, supported by rich backing vocals. “Consumed By Strife” works perfectly as a final piece, wrapping up all the various elements experienced throughout the album.
To sum it up, throughout the “Purgatory” album, DOWNFALL OF MANKIND embodies brutal energy, intensity, and slamming heaviness within the realm of deathcore. The album presents a unique blend of hyper-dissonant deathcore and ballad-heavy metal influences. Compared to the band’s previous releases, “Purgatory” showcases them in their best light so far, with new power, innovation, and improved skills. Hard work always pays off, and DOWNFALL OF MANKIND is a true example of that!
Written by Stephanie Vasileva
Tracklist
- Umbral
- Purgatory
- God of Nothingness
- Weard ov Hell
- Self Loathing
- Down The Barrel of Madness
- As Much As Your Sorrow
- Blinding Rage
- The Cease
- Consumed By Strife
Lineup
Lucas Bishop – Vocals
Arthur Baptista – Guitar
Diogo Gates – Guitar
Sérgio Pascoa – Bass
Pedro Peralta – Drums
Label
Seek & Strike
