As 2008 draws towards its inevitable end, one of the albums that stands out in a positive way is the second album in the second era of Swedish death metal veterans Evocation. It is easily in the top ten of my list of the best death metal discs of the year.

However impressive, last years’ ‘Tales from the Tomb’, ‘Dead Calm Chaos’ is more focused, more to the point, more deadly, more evil, just more of everything.

The basis is still a mixture of Entombed and a tint of the Gothenburg sound – so, no, it’s not all of a sudden avant-garde, modern music. A few metalcore inspired breakdowns have been incorporated in the phenomenal title track, that’s as much modern influence as you get.

For those who like the sound of Sweden and real death metal.

If nothing else, then try these two out: the title track and Protected By What Gods. Ultra-cool tunes!