Bludvera ‘Terrorform’ EP Review: New ‘Blud’

British Thrashers Bludvera have done it again with their new EP “Terrorform.” They have not only topped their demo, but they make it look like child’s play with seven new riff-filled extravaganzas that spew pure chaos from the bowels of hell.

The production value has gone up as everything is crisp and mixed as best as it can be. Every kick, pick and growl can be heard as clear as day with no feeling of claustrophobia. The listener feels like Bludvera is in their house destroying all of the fine china, holding their family hostage and threatening the neighbors with their aggressive assault. Bludvera have taken their time with this and boy, are they pissed off.

The songwriting has gotten much better. When a song feels like it is starting to get a little bland Bludvera changes the riff, tempo, or anything else that pulls the listener back in. Unlike their demo, “Terrorform” never feels forced at any points. The band as a whole has grown. Scott Clayton’s voice sounds damn powerful and downright terrifying at times. Clayton has come into his own and is the best part of the band. His voice is a cross between Schmier (Destruction) and Mille Petrozza (Kreator) with a hint of Bruce Corbitt (Warbeast, Rigor Mortis, Gammacide) thrown in for flavor.

At times it is borderline Death Metal. The guitars have gotten much better. The riffs are memorable especially in songs like “Reanimate,” “Citizen Monopoly” and “Voyage Beyond the System.” The solos are also intriguing as there is a lot of influence from Marty Friedman (Megadeth), Alex Skolnick (Testament), and Andy Laroque (King Diamond) contributing to the shredding. The drumming and bass are also spot on. They play exactly what is needed without showing off, proving why these instruments are the backbone of any band.

Reanimate is one of the best songs on the EP and is a wise choice to start it off. A furious start from the get go that just doesn’t play around. It is one of the most intense songs the band has put out so far. One that will surely make it to the album. The gang vocals really make this song an instant thrash classic.

Another highlight is “Citizen Monopoly.” The lyrics are strong and Clayton sounds like a madman prophesying. The band overall sounds crushing on this one. Blazing riffs and great timekeeping by the rhythm section. The bridge is what really separates this song from all the other songs. The song builds up to it nicely and then the breakdown sets it up again for the chorus which is another setup for a great solo.

The self-titled track is another awesome song with a lot of melody. There is a lot of Testament and Destruction influence in the guitars. It flows very well and there aren’t any grievances to be aired. You can see why Bludvera chose this song as the Ep’s title.

Arguably the best song on the ep is “Voyage Beyond the System.” Scott Clayton is frightening. The guitars are spine chilling. The drums are lethal. The bass is excellent. The ending sounds just like something out of a King Diamond album. The track is beautiful chaos.

Bludvera’s second offering to the world improves on everything they began with their demo. It is an example to all of the other metal bands in the world to up their game with each release. They have gotten better in so many different ways this review can’t list them all. If the label’s aren’t knocking soon Bludvera may be the real reason behind the supposed “apocalypse” due later this year.