LEFT TO DIE, a band featuring former DEATH members Rick Rozz and Terry Butler, has released a new single, 'Witch Of Hell', in anticipation of their upcoming debut album, 'Initium Mortis'. The album, set for release on July 17 via Relapse Records, pays homage to the brutal beginnings of DEATH with newly recorded versions of songs from the band's early catalog.
In an interview, Butler expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the band went from a thought to a full U.S. tour in about three months. He emphasized the importance of playing the early material for fans who couldn't see the first albums in a live setting, highlighting the evolution of the music within these choice cuts from the demo days.
Rozz, another member of LEFT TO DIE, shared his gratitude for the opportunity to perform songs from DEATH's revered first two studio albums. He acknowledged the challenge of learning material he hadn't played since 1989, but expressed relief that it's 'chilled out a little bit' and that he's made new friends and rekindled old friendships with band members.
The album 'Initium Mortis' showcases tracks like 'Archangel', 'Witch Of Hell', and 'Legion Of Doom', expertly executed in the now. It celebrates a seminal band and the camaraderie of the genre's most extreme corner of music. The band's unique take on DEATH's early material offers a fresh perspective for fans and collectors alike.
In addition to the new single, the album features a diverse track list, including 'Power Of Darkness', 'Zombie', 'Rise Of Satan', 'Summoned To Die', 'Mantas', 'Slaughterhouse', and 'Death By Metal'. The release is available in various formats, including CD, LP, cassette, and digital.
LEFT TO DIE's tribute to DEATH's early days is a testament to the band's dedication to preserving the legacy of a seminal band. The album serves as a reminder of the raw, unfiltered energy that defined the birth of death metal, and it's a must-have for fans and collectors who appreciate the genre's history and evolution.