David Halbe 
A viscously unrelenting release. Rapid-fire riffs set to ruthless vocals are undoubtedly a formula that is hell bent for demonic success.
Berator is a blackened death metal act from Chicago, IL. Although, they’ve been a part of the scene since 2016, this is my first exposure to the band. I picked up a copy of their debut EP Elysian Inferno when I hit Meteor Gem Records (3082 N Elston Ave STE A, Chicago, IL 60618) last weekend.
This six-track effort, released by Dark Descent Records, clocks in around twenty-two minutes and holds a relentless pace that has no problem holding your attention. I’d describe the music of Berator as a black eats thrash ensemble with some strong death metal elements.
The overall sound of the EP reminds me of a cross between Marduk (Serpent Sermon – 2012) and Entombed (Clandestine – 1991).
A lethal combination with vocals that are highly reminiscent of Orvar Säfström from Entombed’s Crawl EP (1991).
Highlight tracks for me are: “Swine Cult”, “Sultans Of Incest” and “Final Crucifixion”.
On a final note, I wanted to mention the insane cover art by Paolo Girardi. I couldn’t get past it easily. There is a lot going on, you can see light at the end of this destructive tunnel, but the struggle to get there is more devastatingly real. There is so much thought and menace in the details, it must be mentioned.
Berator is a Chicago metal act worth keeping both eyes and ears on. A viscously unrelenting release. Rapid-fire riffs set to ruthless vocals are undoubtedly a formula that is hell bent for demonic success. Check out Elysian Inferno and let the fiery flames of Berator incinerate you! \m/
Berator is:
• Dave Clark – Drums
• Richard Olsen – Guitar
• Tim Pearson – Bass, Vocals
• Pat Clancy – Guitars
