DEAD CROSS release a blood-curling new chapter with 'II'

Patton, Lombardo, Pearson, and Crain come together to issue another relentless listen.

Photograph by Becky DiGiglio

It's been five years since LA's Dead Cross entered the metal ranks with a self-titled outing to die for, bridging thrash, hardcore, and more into one monstrous collision of sound that continues with today's release of II via Ipecac Recordings. Much like its predecessor, II is as uncompromising as you'd expect an output to be from a group formed from standout metal acts. However, Dead Cross stands as its own unique being that explores creative tendencies free from predetermined expectations.

Built from the ground up with strong camaraderie and mutual respect during Michael Crain's battle with cancer, II is Mike Patton, Dave Lombardo, Justin Pearson, and Crain at their most raw and honest. Crain notes, "Words can’t even begin to describe how much this album means to me. It’s birthed of pain and uncertainty. The slow, excruciatingly painful, and nauseating recovery from cancer treatments were the catalyst for every riff and note on this album. However, my will to live and be with my brothers Justin, Dave, Mike, and co-producer Ross Robinson, got me out of bed and running into the studio every day to get it all on tape.”

II is a cathartic record with a driving set of messages to add to an otherwise ripping collection of tracks. From the wailing guitars of opener Love Without Love to the alternating barrage of Imposter Syndrome, II proves to be a versatile affair with nods to extreme metal across history. The band's punk bravado is a highlight, often counteracted by slow-burning segments that balance the high octane. Reign Of Error, the lead single for the album, did right by II in introducing one of this month's most insane releases. Beyond its aggressive nature, it's a versatile listen that offers much in the realm of sonic diversity for all to bask in.

Stream/purchase II HERE.

Cover Artwork by Eric Livingston