Within Destruction – Animetal (Sumerian)

Within Destruction have certainly come a long way at this point from their deathcore roots. Having moved away from more traditional deathcore and diving into some Japanese influences and trapcore with 2020’s Yokai, a release like Animetal shouldn’t be shocking. Or at least one would think. They did follow it up with the equally experimental Lotus in 2022. They proved in 2023 they could still pull off the deathcore thing in 2023 with Rebirth, but all signs made Animetal out to be exactly what it sounded like…a merger of anime and metal. Hearing the final product, the band delivered, and sadly it’s bound to be just as divisive to the deathcore diehards, but those seeking something off the beaten path that aren’t afraid of a bit of fun (and melodic hooks) should give this one a spin.

There’s a lot of moving parts to the sound of Within Destruction circa 2025. Animetal doesn’t sound like much out there in the metal space. There’s metalcore, trap, EDM, nu metal, deathcore, pop, djent…the list goes on and on, but what’s most important is how the songs still weave a particular tapestry. The opening title cut wastes no time in illustrating that Within Destruction is truly channeling their passion with this release. From the idol-esque chants of “Animetal” to the dizzying electronics and the thick, djenty grooves that swirl into a viceral and energetic beast, it’s just a fun and engaging song to dig into. A big melody solo also awaits, and the combo between clean vocalist Howard Fang and Rok Rupnik’s varied extreme vocals gives it even more flavor. “Kanashibari” begins with rumbling downtuned nu metal riffs only to dip into trap territory, offering an effective throwback while keeping it modern sounding. An equally big chorus aids in keeping the song rooted in ‘today,’ and offers a nice twist from the darker verse territory.

“Cybergirl” is probably the most melodic and ‘pop-driven’ song on the album. Featuring synths with cinematic flair that have a futuristic undercurrent, the playful melodies floating underneath all but explode at the jubilant, poppy chorus that doubles as dance session with its EDM coating. “Incomplete” is driven by melodies as well, but it’s more melancholic and almost emo-sounding at times, led by Fang’s soaring cleans. At the same time, some intricate riffing and melodies are playfully moving about the background if you give it a good listen. Perhaps an initial favorite is that of “Stay 4ever,” with it’s glorious and epic chorus that slows the tempo down a bit from the more throttling deathcore riffing and earbending melodies in it’s verse, not to mention the breakdown. It’s a nice example of everything the band is offering on Animetal.

For those seeking heaviness, three songs towards the end should give them something to chew in. “Automaton” barrels in with crushing grooves and churning deathcore riffs laced with some melodic breaks. “Hide & Sick” meshes thumping bass and murky EDM elements into a pummeling deathcore template to create some absolutely devastating moments. It’s a song that practically begs to be played live to see the audience energy and reaction to it. To end the heavier trilogy, “Torment” pulls in dark trap elements and nu grooves to build up the melodic end before diving into more brutal waters and eventual breakdown territory in the most overwhelming way. The band wisely moves away from the ultra-brutal territory to end the album on a more melancholic note with “A Love that Slowly Died,” hitting some poignantly emotive moments that offer a fine resonating finale.

Some may argue that Animetal is a bit cheesy, but let’s be honest, that’s part of the reason it works. It’s fun, playful, and leans into some anime tropes in it’s attempt to bring it into the metal-sphere. It features larger-than-life choruses, ridiculous breakdowns, high-flying guitar solos, and just about everything in between. While it might not be for everyone, those seeking any of the above elements are bound to have a good time with Animetal. Within Destruction are really putting their passions onto their sleeves for everyone to see, and it’s truly hard to not get caught up in the absolute blast of a good time they are having with this.