Vox Interium play a derivative version of Florida death metal with a few elements from bands such as Meshuggah mixed in. The result, however, is neither very well played nor original. Overall, Vox Interium is a rather poor version of the great Florida band Diabolic. The vocal delivery is nearly identical, and the production and the guitar sound are similar. However, the similarities end here. Diabolic play with power, aggression, and write memorable riffs. Vox Interium doesn’t succeed at these crucial elements. While retaining the sound of Diabolic, Vox Interium’s music lacks the punch and power that make Diabolic memorable. Most of the album follows this formula.

In addition, some of the songs seem rather disjointed and confusing. The fifth track, Deadly Injection, is a case in point. Different time changes, riffs, and acoustical elements are seemingly thrown together at random in the song and do not flow together very well. Bands such as Meshuggah and Cephalic Carnage are masters at this trick, but Vox Interium is nowhere near that level of expertise.

Vox Interium seems to be a band looking for a solid identity. They’re playing Florida death metal, but they’re also trying to incorporate other influences. This is fine, but it’s just not pulled off very well. Incidentally, the band is a trio. Perhaps an additional guitarist with strong songwriting skills would be an enormous asset for future releases. For now, your hard earned dollar is probably better spent elsewhere.

A few other points should be mentioned. First, the album’s title is unclear. The album cover says “Yearing”, but the band’s website says “Yearning”. Language problems are excusable, but something as crucial as the title should not be overlooked. Also, Vox Interium gets bonus points from me for the astronomical imagery in the booklet and the back label, although the context is unclear.

written by Dave Schalek

Playing time: 40.20