Kingdoms Disdained

Released in 2017, Kingdoms Disdained marks the return of vocalist/bassist Steve Tucker to Morbid Angel, effectively steering the band back toward the crushing death metal sound of the late 90s. Following the polarizing experimentation of their previous effort, this album was widely viewed as a 'return to form,' though it possesses a unique sonic character distinct from their early 90s classics. The production is notably dense and modern, emphasizing a 'wall of sound' approach that highlights the precision of new drummer Scotty Fuller. Trey Azagthoth's guitar work remains the centerpiece, utilizing his signature atonal scales and unconventional tremolo picking to create a sense of 'dark chaos.' Lyrically, the album moves away from simple gore, focusing instead on apocalyptic themes, Sumerian mysticism, and the decay of modern civilization. It stands as a testament to the band's enduring influence on the genre, proving they can still innovate within the framework they helped create.