Hackneyed - Death Prevails

Barely a year after their formation, the German band Hackneyed already managed to secure a record deal and record their debut CD. A little more time picking the name might have been in order, however. Hackneyed means to become banal and trite through overuse, which is the exact opposite of what a band wants.

Death Prevails is modern death metal, and while no means deathcore, has a few 'core elements. The songs are straightforward, intense and brutal with groovy riffs and a thundering bottom end.

Hackneyed tries to add some diversity with tempo changes and a few other flourishes, but still fails to have much impact. They are technically sound, but they don't have enough memorable riffs or hooks to stand out over the death metal masses.

One of the main selling points of Hackneyed is their young age. The average age is 16, and one of the members is only 14. It's great they were able to draw the attention of a record label, but to have staying power they'll need more than that. Death Prevails has its moments, and the band does show promise, but they need to increase the uniqueness and catchiness of the songs.

(released September 2, 2008 on Nuclear Blast Records)