Review: “Human Impertinence” by Conniver

Hailing from Winterthur Switzerland are Conniver, a band who feature in their ranks musicians known for their prior convictions in Virvum, Lortify and Dynamite Abortion to name but a few. Citing influences in bands like Meshuggah, Cannibal Corpse and Decapitated, the four piece claim Brutal Technical Deathcore as their core sound but inevitably cross into territories of Death Metal and even Progressive Metal in their burnt offerings. Curiously they are seemingly masterminded by guitarist Toby Koelman, who is not only a Carillon Guitars artist but also produced, mixed and mastered the bands debut EP “Human Impertinence” in house. As if that isn’t enough he also co-wrote the lyrics for the record with his Grofból bandmate Wade Taylor (Atoll, Avarice, Eyes of Perdition), for whom this may well be the one and only record as vocalist having been replaced by Sacha Wacker.

No one can imprison drummer Diego Morenzoni, who blasts his way out of solitary confinement as the eight string guitars from Koelman and Cyrill Fehr churn their way through the opening riffs of “Wretched“. A brutal, pummelling assault on the senses with throat shredding vocals from Taylor who screams the dark thoughts of a demonic serial killer, all that’s missing a few shriller vocal moments to add spice to the guttural lows. “Virus” then takes the baton with DJent fuelled groove riffs opening up the arteries as an alien beast threatens to cleans the Earth of all humanity. A headbangers delight, the rhythmic gymnastics and dexterity in display in this burnt offering are incredible, the bludgeoning far from being a simple building yard brick fight between rival factions. There are hints at science fiction horror themes akin to Kaiju travelling through a tear in the fabric of space and time which are ripe for development in future offerings should the band so desire. Hitherto unheard bloodcurdling death growls begin “The Rift” in style as the urgent riffage destroys the cranium before a surprise almost ethereal melodic bridge touches the void into Progressive Death Metal. A couple of shriller vocal moments then add depth and texture before a killer pick slide (who doesn’t love a pick slide?!) into the final onslaught, the intensity of these tracks second to none.

Neck snapping groove is the order of the day with “Broken Aura” before staccato riff break infestations massacre the ear drums in a powerhouse display of brutality that leaves no stone unturned in pursuit of bludgeoning perfection. A shell of a man looks upon himself with distain, questioning whether it is possible to escape his thoughts of violence or whether he should simply allow himself to become the monster. The menacing soundscape ignites the tale, Taylor’s storytelling capabilities impressive to say the least and this one will have you hooked until the very last note. Down tuned DJent fuelled chugs form the backbone of “New Breed” as the intensity is increased, the gripping storyline becoming page turning psychological horror about creating a new kind of being to dominate the earth. Adrenaline pumping to the very last moment, the Conniver don’t rely on any gimmicks, samples or synths, instead hitting like a freight train from start to finish with muscular, angular riffs which cleave flesh from bone. “Profuse Convulsions” marks the skull battering finale of this brute of a record, sinister background sounds adding another dimension to the non stop riffs from thick gauged strings that wrap around the throat like a boa constrictor. “Human Impertinence” maybe a debut EP but it is the work of a collection of seasoned musicians who know exactly what they’re doing and it will leave you wondering just how far they can push these levels of brutality… [7.5/10]

Track Listing

1. Wretched
2. Virus
3. The Rift
4. Broken Aura
5. New Breed
6. Profuse Convulsions

“Human Impertinence” by Conniver is out 13th September 2024 and is available over at bandcamp