Review by Deb White Groebner

Die Choking's second album, aptly titled "II," is a relentless assault on the senses. With 20 tracks packed into just over 20 minutes, the Philadelphia-based grindcore trio wastes no time in delivering a sonic onslaught of blistering riffs, pummeling drums, and guttural vocals.

From the opening track "Dwell," Die Choking establishes their signature sound, a frenzied blend of punk, metal, and hardcore that is both chaotic and precise. The band's technical prowess is on full display throughout the album, with lightning-fast guitar and bass work that never sacrifices melody for speed.

Standout tracks include "Dead Figurehead," which features a haunting spoken-word intro before launching into a barrage of blast beats and riffage, and "Misanthropic Death Dealer," a seething indictment of humanity's destructive tendencies.

Despite the album's unrelenting intensity, Die Choking manages to inject moments of unexpected beauty and complexity into their songs, such as the atmospheric interlude "Torn From Altar to Grave" and the intricate guitar work on "The Prince of Population."

Summary by Deb White Groebner

"II" is a masterclass in grindcore, showcasing Die Choking's ability to push the genre to its limits while maintaining a sense of cohesion and purpose. Fans of extreme music will find plenty to love here, while newcomers to the genre may be surprised at the depth and complexity on display.