Phantasm - The Abominable (1995)

   "The Abominable" by Phantasm is a forgotten and barely known gem of old school death metal. Includes their demo and a single. Even though the band was probably at the wrong place at the wrong time, this compilation could be mentioned on the side of the biggest names of the genre.
   Their music had such a sick impression that cannot be compared to anything else. It's partly based ot the melodies they operated with, and partly on the common and unexpected changes during the album. It's not simply based on showing contrast or seeking for effectiveness, their music was well composed and diverse. Of course in '95 it was fit to the main ambitions of the extreme scene, but Phantasm was different and cannot be called a progressive or technical band. Doom influences and fast hammering are same usual, but mid speed is the most common that allows the appearence of the sick melodic themes. The quality and the imperfection of the sound tells already that it was used to be a demo only, but still it's very enjoyable. "The Abominable" is a very underrated and genuine death metal classic.