The Legendary Original Incubus

Incubus emerged as a pioneering force in the extreme metal scene, delivering ferocious, high-speed thrash metal that pushed boundaries into the realms of death metal. Their music was relentless, potent, and groundbreaking—an early and vivid example of how thrash metal could evolve into something more extreme.

Brazilian Thrash Metal Roots

Serpent Temptation stands as a masterpiece deserving greater acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and enduring influence. This album is a bold testament to the ferocity of the original Incubus, cementing its place as a significant milestone in both death and thrash metal. Its unparalleled musical brilliance leaves an indelible legacy in the history of extreme metal.

A Pioneering Vision

In the 1980s, the original Incubus from Brazil captivated audiences with their blistering speed, intensity, and heaviness. They were among the first to seamlessly blend death and thrash metal into a cohesive, innovative sound. However, due to copyright issues with another band using the same name, they faced a hiatus and later rebranded as Opprobrium.

Exquisite Riffs and Songwriting

The hallmark of Serpent Temptation lies in its intricately constructed riffs and masterful execution. Each track demonstrates a level of sophistication rarely associated with extreme metal, transitioning seamlessly between crushingly heavy, slower tempos and rapid tremolo passages. Guitarist Francis M. Howard’s extraordinary talent shines through in the mind-blowing riffs and sophisticated songwriting. The album is a testament to the band’s creativity and technical prowess, which became even more refined in their subsequent release, Beyond the Unknown.

Raw Production and Distinctive Sound

The album’s raw production enhances its commanding guitar tone, delivering a distorted sound reminiscent of bands like Exhorder and Demolition Hammer. From the opening moments of “Sadistic Sinner,” listeners are greeted with a sharp, aggressive tone that sets the stage for the unrelenting onslaught that follows.

Drumming Mastery

Drumming on Serpent Temptation is another standout feature, with a hyper-snare style that sets it apart from contemporaries. This approach contributes to the album’s reputation as one of the fastest thrash metal recordings. While the drumming’s blistering speed may be mistaken for blast beats, closer examination reveals a unique thrash beat style executed with precision—an impressive accomplishment that elevates the album’s intensity.

Pushing Boundaries

Incubus challenged conventions with their ability to deliver thrash beats at unprecedented tempos, rivaling the speed of death and black metal bands known for blast beats. At times, the intensity flirts with grindcore, yet the band remains firmly rooted in thrash metal, showcasing a sound that is both unique and trailblazing.

A Milestone in Extreme Metal

In conclusion, the reissue of Serpent Temptation reinforces its place as a landmark in extreme metal history. The album’s influence on death and thrash metal is immeasurable, and the ferocity and musicianship displayed by Incubus remain unmatched. This release is a testament to their enduring impact and a must-listen for any fan of the genre.