Vile Rites, a trio from Santa Rosa, California, are about to push the bounds of extreme music. Their first full-length album, Senescence, was released on August 16th through Carbonized Records. The record is a mesmerizing synthesis of aggressive riffs, intricate rhythms (the drumming and bass playing are insane), and a psychedelic sensibility. The result is a listening experience as cerebral as it is visceral. The band recently came through Seattle with the mighty Sacramentum, previewed three songs from their new album, and answered a few questions.
Vile Rite’s inception goes back to 2016, when vocalist/guitarist Alex Miletich wanted to start a blackened tech thrash project in Portland, Oregon. A subsequent relocation to California and the purchase of a new 7-string guitar ignited a creative transformation, resulting in a heavier, more complex sound. The addition of drummer Aerin Johnson and bassist/synth player Stephen Coon solidified the lineup in 2020, setting the stage for Vile Rites’ current sonic identity. The band’s debut EP, The Ageless, dropped in 2022 and showcased their ability to blend death metal, progressive rock/metal, and psychedelic influences. The lyrics explored themes from the natural world and its relationship to humankind, with a sharp societal critique present throughout. Interest had been piqued.
On Senescence, the songs are even more head-turning and the lyrical themes more thought-provoking. Whereas Miletich wrote all of the riffs on The Ageless, the new album includes significant contributions from the other members. A perfect example is the song “Shiftless Wanderings,” which concluded the set in Seattle. The song, including riffs written by their drummer, Aerin, is a complex and layered composition, highlighting the band’s broader influences and dynamic range. It was an unbelievably powerful song live and will surely feature in their sets for quite some time.
What sets Senescence apart from other so-called progressive or technical death metal albums is the band’s ability to balance technical proficiency with emotional depth. The music is challenging and rewarding, inviting listeners to explore its intricacies while still delivering a visceral punch. This balance is achieved through careful attention to songwriting, arrangement, and performance.
“I think what I’m most proud of on this record is how all three of us came together,” said Alex after their performance. “We all delivered very demanding and intricate parts, but locked in together in such a cohesive manner.” Commenting on the importance of balancing three members with such obvious technical prowess, Miletich stated, “Each of us has our moments in the spotlight, but it never feels like we’re stepping on each other’s toes, and it’s the collective that shines more than any individual.” And shine through it surely fucking does!
With their unwavering commitment to artistic evolution, Vile Rites are poised to become a force in the world of extreme music. Their music is a testament to the boundless possibilities of human creativity, challenging listeners to explore uncharted territories of sound. The willingness to employ thought-provoking lyrical content should be applauded and is only more impressive given its penchant for examining the natural world in all its beauty and brutality. “We are born into the world with nothing but a vessel, and we only leave behind the legacy of what we’ve created.” Well said, Vile Rites, well said!
Senescence is out now, and you can order it from Carbonized Records. Follow Vile Rites on Facebook for future updates.
Photo courtesy of Vile Rites
