Whenever I think of death metal I typically think of American or Scandinavian bands as they’re the ones that dominate the global scene of death metal by a massive lead. But what about the representation of undeath in other countries? It makes you wonder what else the world has to offer, at least for me, and with one of my favorite bands of the genre bring from Iran, I’ve always wanted to see what else the world had to offer. Costa Rica, though? Leave it to the very capable hands of Corpse Garden to bring the scene to life in such a country.

With their last album, Corpse Garden undoubtedly left an impact on those who heard it simply because it showed that not only can this band lay death metal down in a very tasteful and entertaining way, but it also helped put Costa Rica on the map of worldwide death metal. I’ve no doubt that the country has a seen death metal from within its borders before, but it is Corpse Garden that really paves the way and their upcoming album of “IAO 269” is a black, evil testament to what they’re creating. Whereas previously Corpse Garden just went for the full frontal assault right for the throat, “IAO 269” also manages to bring an absolutely horrifying layer to the overall mix of the record to where it’s just in the background to where you have to search for it yet you’re always conscious it’s there. That’s a very difficult thing to pull off, especially with death metal, but Corpse Garden made it work amazingly well and made its marriage with their style of death metal fucking immaculate. The nine tracks of “IAO 269” are nothing but a sheer onslaught that comes in acidic waves that burrow down into the very soul to taint it black, and keeps you in its talons with that Spanish flavor that occasionally makes its presence known throughout the record to give it a bit of exotic flair. That’s another thing many death metal bands tend to lack: a sense of identity that can link them to their native country. By no means does Corpse Garden through in traditional Costa Rican pieces into their music, but it’s that feeling that really makes “IAO 269” more than another obscure record of its kind and thus allows Corpse Garden to bring an extra, unexpected layer to the table that many can’t.

Whether or not one gives two shits about where they get their metal, no one can deny that a death metal group from Costa Rica is nothing but abnormal. It’s a very welcome change for the palette that I’ve come to develop, and Corpse Garden is a treat that just keeps on giving with every new piece that I hear from this driven band. “IAO 269” is yet another glimpse to the genius that is clearly dwelling within the minds behind Corpse Garden, and so far this is the best thing that this band has pushed out bar none. It’s a very haunting experience that’s sure to leave you shook until the end, and will have you begging for more.

“IAO 269” releases in November! (specific date TBA)

LISTEN to advanced track, “Selenomantic Ecstacies”, via SoundCloud here or below.

LIKE Corpse Garden on Facebook here.