J-Man One look at the cover of this EP and you'll know exactly what you're in for - dark, ominous death metal filled with blasphemous lyrics and enough brutality to satisfy even the most die-hard extreme metal fans. It's also worth noting what an excellent album cover that is; it definitely grabs the eye at first glance! The music contained inside this 28 minute EP doesn't disappoint either. Gorephilia's style of old school death metal is sure to appeal to the masses, and the talent they show on Ascend to Chaos is truly remarkable. These Finnish lads have plenty to offer, and Dark Descent Records has once again delivered the goods through this great EP.

Gorephilia plays a style of old school death metal in the vein of Morbid Angel and Deicide with plenty of influences from Swedish acts like Entombed or Grave. Gorephilia actually sounds a fair amount like their labelmates, Corpsessed. Expect low guttural vocals, a somewhat muddy production, and filthy guitar riffs. If that sort of thing is what you enjoy, Ascend to Chaos should be right up your alley. This is 28 minutes of brutal, relentless death metal that can send chills up anyone's spine. The dark production and professional musicianship give the EP the stellar execution necessary to fully convey the evil sounds Gorephilia creates.

Ascend to Chaos may not be a particularly revolutionary EP, but it's an above average death metal release worthy of 3.5 well-earned stars. With a slightly more original approach and a few more years of experience under their belts, I can foresee Gorephilia becoming one of Finland's best modern exports. Fans of old school death metal in the vein of Morbid Angel are highly advised to give this one a shot! Dark Descent Records seems to have tons of great music to offer this year, and Ascend to Chaos certainly lives up to expectations.