If only this album had actual drums, or at least a drum machine that could be heard loud and clear, because "Anno Universum" has a ton of potential. ARKHUM, a Death Metal band based in Oregon, is full of young lads trying to make a name for themselves with their first full-length, but they would have been better suited to hold off a little while and locate a drummer (or produce the album with a strong, meaty drum machine).

The guitars, bass and lead vocals are definitely noteworthy and it's clear that ARKHUM have taken their time to craft well thought out compositions for "Anno Universum", but the album falls flat on it's jewel case for the simple fact that the percussive elements of the release are virtually non-existent. Sure, the ride and high hat are audible, but it's almost impossible to differentiate what sounds like a snare or bass or floor tom. Rolls and fills are virtually undetectable. It's truly a shame that an album full of so much potential is bereft of such an important element of creating a superior chunk of Death Metal.

It's a travesty that ARKHUM has chosen to release the album with such a glaring misstep, and considering Jason Walton from AGALLOCH mastered the record, it's unfathomable. There isn't a weak song on "Anno Universum" because the stringed passages are so well crafted and the vocals are strong. Abe Hurd did a masterful job on the cover as well, but it's nearly impossible to disregard the horrendous drum production. "Anno Universum" would get a solid B without question had they actually taken greater care in such an integral portion of creating this type of music. Here's hoping these guys - and they're still a blossoming band, mind you - pull it together and release the monster album they are truly capable of next time around.