Rating: 9/10

Aborted’s Vault of Horrors is a savage blend of blood-pumping riffs, throat-slaughtering vocals and enough synchronized chaos to drag you kicking and screaming (with delight) into the abyss— A headbanger’s paradise with a side of madness.

Belgian death metal heavyweights Aborted are back with Vault of Horrors, a masterclass in brutality that cranks up the chaos and throws in just enough fresh elements to keep you nodding. From the moment “Deadbringer” kicks in, you know you’re in for something massive. The blend of orchestral and synth work is woven seamlessly into their relentless assault, setting the tone for a hellish ride.

Despite sticking to their gruesome roots, Vault of Horrors feels like their strongest release yet. Lyrically, it’s Aborted doing what they do best—pumping out grisly, visceral themes that’ll make even the most hardened headbangers raise an eyebrow. Vocalist Sven “Svencho” de Caluwé has mastered the art of timing his deep growls with monstrous backing vocals to hit just right, forging every track to leaves its mark.

The technicality on this album is razor-sharp, with riffs and solos that are equal parts precise and brutal. Drummer Ken Bedene lays down blast beats that never overstay their welcome, and his double-pedal work hits like a wrecking ball—no unnecessary cymbal smashing, just a perfectly calculated onslaught. It’s the perfect blend of groove and aggression that’s become synonymous with Aborted.

Tracks like “Condemned to Rot” deliver a quick and savage earworm injection, while “Brotherhood of Sleep” features some of the heaviest vocal work in recent memory—raw, meaningful, and downright menacing. And let’s not forget “Death Cult,” which sees the band teaming up with Despised Icon to deliver a track that sounds like they’re having a blast creating absolute carnage. If there’s a standout on the album, “Deadbringer” might just be it—a groovy yet relentless intro that encapsulates the album’s unyielding heaviness.

Yet, despite all the praise, there’s a reason this album isn’t getting a full 10/10. Around these parts, we reserve that honor for something truly genre-defining. While Aborted knocked it out of the park here, a touch more modernism in the breakdowns would’ve elevated this record even further. Still, with Vault of Horrors, Aborted prove why they’re headliners in the world of death metal.

And let’s not forget the killer guest spots: Shadow of Intent, Francesco Paoli, Despised Icon, and more contribute to this visceral release. If you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there’s plenty here to sink your teeth into. Just be prepared to leave a little piece of your sanity behind.

Essential Metal Merch

Vault of Horrors – Vinyl Must-Have

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