Paganizer were formed in 1998 in Sweden by Rogga Johansson, a prolific figure within the death metal underground. From their inception, the band have embodied the spirit of classic Swedish death metal, drawing influence from legendary acts such as Entombed, Dismember, and Grave. Over the years, Paganizer have released a steady stream of albums, including Dead Unburied (2002), Carnage Junkie (2008), and Land of Weeping Souls (2017), each solidifying their reputation for delivering uncompromising, riff-driven brutality. The band’s lineup has evolved, but Johansson’s vocals and guitar work remain the cornerstone of their sound, characterised by buzzsaw guitars, guttural growls, and relentless drumming.
Despite changes in personnel and the ebb and flow of the death metal genre, Paganizer have consistently adhered to their musical roots, opting for consistency over experimentation. Their previous albums have been praised for their authenticity and energy, although some critics have noted a lack of innovation. Nevertheless, the band’s commitment to the genre’s traditions has earned them a loyal following.
Their new album As Mankind Rots explodes into life with the opening title track. No intros, no fanfare, no fluff; just pure, aggressive, chunky riffs and devastating blast beats. Johansson’s vocals are as ferocious as ever, and the track’s mid-tempo groove provides an accessible entry point. “Devoured” oscillates between rampaging speed and mid-tempo groove stomps, featuring blast beats, razor-sharp guitars and classic, pummeling Swedish death metal in all its glory. “Aftermath Bleeder” and “Only Maggots” continue the tried and tested assault, charging forward with aggressive rhythm and fury. Flurries of frantic riffs and thunderous drums are accompanied by chugging basslines and Johansson’s powerful and instantly recognisable roars.
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“Put On Your Gasmask” encapsulates Paganizer’s signature style. The guitar tone is thick and menacing, while the rhythm section drives the track forward with precision. While the track is well-executed with the added textured layer of air-raid alarms, it plays it safe and doesn’t significantly depart from the band’s established formula; but 27 years into their career, why should they? “Hollow” returns to the alternating tempo formula of catchy hooks and rampaging fury; twisting and turning with every beat and riff. “A Testament To Madness” slows the pace, offering a more doom-laden approach. The slower tempo allows for greater emphasis on atmosphere and the growled vocals add to the sense of impending doom before launching into more dense grooves. “Afterworld” features strong, trademark riffs and dynamic shifts moving from blast beats to slower, rhythmical passages that add texture and dark melodics.
As the album descends into its closing chapters, “The Rotting End” is very aptly named. The track’s strength is its ability to balance melody with heaviness whilst maintaining a sinister, spiraling atmosphere. “One Way To The Grave” is one of the album’s most aggressive tracks with rapid-fire riffing and blistering blast beats. The vocals are ferocious and the track’s intense pacing never lets up, excelling in sheer brutality. Finally, the album closes with “Vanans Makt” which appeared on the Compiled Ammunition compilation back in 2020. This track is the biggest deviation away from their reliable formula with the incorporation of guest vocals from Bulten of Swedish punk band Lastkaj 14. “Vanans Makt” serves as one of the album’s strongest tracks despite it being the conclusion, with its memorable riffs and rich melodics.
As Mankind Rots is a triumph of consistency, showcasing Paganizer’s mastery of the death metal genre. The album’s strengths lie in its solid songwriting, energetic performances, and adherence to the band’s established formula. The production quality enhances the rawness of the music, and the thematic cohesion is commendable. However, the record’s weaknesses stem from its predictability and lack of innovation; those seeking new directions may find it repetitive. Nevertheless, Paganizer’s commitment to their craft is evident throughout, and their refusal to compromise will resonate with fans of traditional death metal. As Mankind Rots is a worthy addition to Paganizer’s discography and reaffirms their status as torchbearers of Swedish death metal.
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As Mankind Rots is out on February 6th via Xtreem Music.
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