Review: Lazarus Casket – Spiritual Warfare

By Seth Metoyer, Heaven’s Metal Magazine –

Lazarus Casket delivers a tight, six-track EP that clocks in at just around 20 minutes, and it doesn’t waste a second. Spiritual Warfare hits with a raw blend of melodic death metal and thrash, wrapped in an old-school DIY production aesthetic that might not be polished, but that might be the point.

The mix is a bit inconsistent. Guitars occasionally overpower the vocals, and the drum tones could use a bit more punch in the low end. That said, this ragged edge adds character. It’s a gritty, unfiltered listen, and for fans of heavier Christian metal, it’s a welcome shake-up.

Stylistically, there’s a clear nod to the early days of In Flames, especially in the melodic riff construction. But Lazarus Casket isn’t copying blueprints. There’s a more primal aggression underneath it all, a bestial intensity that makes it feel lived-in and war-torn. Vocally, it swings from death metal growls to piercing shrieks, some of which even carry a raw, Phil Anselmo-esque bark, especially in the more aggressive passages. There’s a gritty, southern-metal rasp beneath the chaos that adds an extra layer of hostility. Flashes of clean singing add dimension, and there’s even a touch of deathcore here and there, especially in breakdown-heavy tracks like “Into Eternity.”

Thematically, Spiritual Warfare lives up to its title. The lyrics tackle internal battles, self-deception, and divine redemption. Tracks like “Me vs. Me” dive into that personal-exorcism territory, with lines like “I am the enemy” and “You’re self-deceiving” painting a picture of spiritual conflict from the inside out.

While the production won’t win any awards, it does have heart; this is a grassroots project through and through, and it feels authentic because of it. You can practically hear the blood and sweat in every riff.

Fans of early metal acts like Tourniquet, Deliverance, and Betrayal might also find something here to enjoy. In the Christian metal scene, where raw melodic death metal with deathcore flavor is still relatively rare, this EP fills a gap and delivers something that feels genuinely new.

Spiritual Warfare is a blast of raw power with just enough melody to keep it memorable. It’s not flawless, but it’s got guts. Throw it on while answering emails or driving through fog with the windows down and your fists clenched. You won’t regret it.

Rating: 7/10

About Author

Seth Metoyer

Seth is a seasoned music industry professional with over 25 years of experience. As a writer, graphic designer, film producer, and founder of Broken Curfew Records, Seth brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as a writer at Heaven’s Metal Magazine.

He is also the vocalist and guitarist for the extreme the Christian metal band Mangled Carpenter, and Pulpit Vomit.

Seth has worked with labels such as Essential Records, Rugged Records, Absolute Records, Reunion Records, and Sony Music Group.

In addition to his music industry achievements, he has produced over 20 feature films and composed music for three feature films.

An avid supporter of underground metal, Seth collaborates closely with bands in Christian extreme metal genres, helping them gain exposure.

Visit sethmetoyer.com for more info.

Send your heavy and extreme music news or album review requests to heavensmetalseth@gmail.com.

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