Formed in 1989 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Incantation quickly made a name for themselves in the world of death metal with their uncompromisingly brutal sound and dark, occult-inspired lyrics. With a sound that draws heavily from early pioneers of the genre such as Morbid Angel and Death, Incantation has earned a dedicated following amongst fans of extreme metal.
The band’s original lineup consisted of vocalist and guitarist John McEntee, drummer Jim Roe, and bassist Ronny Deo. Over the years, the lineup has changed several times, with McEntee remaining the sole constant member. Throughout their career, Incantation has released numerous albums and EPs, each showcasing the band’s unique blend of ferocity and technical skill.
The band’s debut album, “Onward to Golgotha,” released in 1992 on Relapse Records, is often cited as one of the most influential death metal albums of all time. The album perfectly captures the essence of Incantation’s sound, with pummeling riffs, blistering drumming, and guttural vocals that sound like they’re being screamed from the depths of hell.
Lyrically, Incantation often explores themes of death, decay, and dark occultism. With song titles like “Demonic Incarnate,” “Bastion of a Plague Soul,” and “Blasphemous Cremation,” it’s clear that the band isn’t interested in holding back. However, unlike many death metal bands who simply use shock value for its own sake, Incantation’s lyrics often have a deeper meaning, touching on themes of morality and existential dread.
Despite their uncompromisingly brutal sound and dark themes, Incantation has also been praised for their technical prowess. The band’s musicianship is top-notch, with complex song structures and intricate solos that show off their skills. This technical ability is perhaps best showcased on albums like “The Infernal Storm” and “Decimate Christendom,” which feature some of the band’s most elaborate and technically impressive material.
Over the years, Incantation has toured extensively, both in the United States and abroad. They’ve played with other prominent death metal bands such as Cannibal Corpse, Deicide, and Nile, and have become fixtures of the extreme metal festival circuit. Their live shows are legendary amongst fans, featuring a relentless barrage of punishing riffs and hair-raising vocals.
Despite their long and storied career, Incantation shows no signs of slowing down. The band’s most recent release, “Profane Nexus,” came out in 2017, and proves that they’re still at the top of their game. With the band’s masterful blend of brutality and technicality, it’s clear that Incantation is a force to be reckoned with in the world of death metal.