IMMORTAL DISFIGUREMENT – King

The symphonic arrangements give this release an unimaginable depth. Like the soundtrack of a horror film, the distribution is synchronized, a spiral descent filled with enough morbidity to please any fan of extremity.

When one considers the popularity of deathcore it was only a matter of time before somebody dreamed up paring this extremity with symphonic elements. This does more than just add longevity to a niche musical genus, it allows for new artistic expressions, an ultimate fusion of beauty and beast!

Immortal Disfigurement are from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The band has been active since 2021 and appears to now be represented by Seek and Strike, a digital media, marketing agency and record label founded in August 2017 in Los Angeles, California. I can only guess this change is based on the success of their outstanding independent release, King, unveiled back in June of 2024.

Before I give you my review of this release, I want to address any possible backlash for supporting a group that includes singer CJ McCreery. Many of you probably know McCreery’s work as the former vocalist of the Signs of the Swarm and Lorna Shore. The later band abruptly fired McCreery after accusations involving alleged sexual abuse occurred. These allegations began when his ex-girlfriend began posting stories and screenshots of text messages detailing an abusive-like behavior that allegedly occurred within a four-year relationship. Following this revelation, other parties began to accuse McCreery of a similar misconduct.

While it’s true that any inditement of this nature should be taken seriously, social platforms are not the proper place to air this type of ‘dirty laundry’. I personally reserve judgement when dealing with any sexual/abusive allegations involving individuals, especially when those involved were engaged in a multi-year relationship. Who’s to say what goes on behind the closed doors? Scorned lovers are often vindictive. Let’s reserve judgment until we hear both sides. Considering this all happened back in 2019, and we haven’t heard anything since, I think it’s time to let this part of McCreery’s life rest. The past is the past.

2024’s King is an effort worth re-living. This album is fucking brutal. The symphonic arrangements give this release an unimaginable depth. Like the soundtrack of a horror film, the distribution is synchronized, a spiral descent filled with enough morbidity to please any fan of extremity. A demonic development that enhances both the physical but more importantly psychological aspects of the musical delivery. Pain and anger are at the forefront of this attack. An offering that holds a polished confidence seldom seen in an independent debut. A blood-soaked mix with an unwavering emphasis on McCreery’s vocal extravaganza. Highlight tracks for me are: “King”, “Force-Fed”, “Crimson Vision”, “Sacrificial Submission”, “Painless Execution” and “There Is No Light”.

Immortal Disfigurement have put themselves on the map with this release. The band’s page on Encyclopaedia Metallum has made me excited. A new single entitled “Gospel of Annihilation” was just unveiled last month (May 2^nd 2025).

Hopefully this is an indication that a new offering is in the works. Until that time, check out King and experience the symphonic future of deathcore! \m/