Have you ever heard an album that tapped into the inner primal rage deep inside yourself, compelling you to destroy anything in sight? That was me, the first time I heard Pyrexia’s 1997 album System Of The Animal. From the groove-laden riffs of guitarist Chris Basile to the pissed-off hardcore style barks of vocalist Keith DeVito this album is an underrated masterpiece of New York Death Metal mixed with Hardcore grooves.
System Of The Animal saw Basile (remaining original member) forming a new lineup featuring Keith DeVito on vocals and Rob Marsche on drums. A radical departure from 1993’s Sermon of Mockery, this record saw the band going for more of a groove-focused style of Death metal with some strong New York hardcore influences. Every track on this album crushes and is brimming with memorable riffs. From the grooving opening track “Confrontation” to the straight-up hardcore song “Closure”. In addition to the guitar work, the vocals are a nice change from the typical death metal style and brought something new to the table. The only downside of this record is the production. Although I enjoy the 90s-era recording, the mix sounds mono and some clarity between the instruments would be nice.
This album doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. It was ahead of its time and with the strong New York Hardcore energy, could honestly be considered Deathcore before that became a trend. Recently it was the 25th anniversary of this record and the band decided to re-record the album. Keeping everything that made the record so impactful but with clearer production, minimal changes, and adding a Brutal Death Metal touch to it.
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