EXTINCTION Cryogenesis CD

The 2023 album Cryogenesis by the Italian band Extinction, released through the specialized label Punishment 18 Records, represents a high-octane fusion of Technical Thrash and Death Metal. Originally formed in the mid-90s and later revitalized in Turin, the band uses this third full-length effort to explore complex themes of transhumanism and sci-fi philosophy. The title itself refers to the future possibility of reviving human bodies or brains through bionic integration after hibernation—a concept reflected in the striking cover art designed by Sheila Franco and the lyrical depth of the music. The album is presented in a professional CD digipak format and features a lineup consisting of founder Danilo Bonuso and Jean Edifizi on guitars, Lorenzo Catolla on bass, and the distinctive vocals of Filippo Howling SSTAR Collaro, with powerhouse drumming by session veteran Davide Billia. The record moves away from generic thrash tropes, offering a more technical and aggressive sound influenced by giants like Pestilence, Death, and Sepultura. Its ten tracks provide a relentless and varied sonic experience, starting with the atmospheric music video single Doors of Perception and the punishing Demon of the Fall. The journey continues with the visceral Satanic Ritual Abuse, Facing the Beast, and the instrumental transition Synthesis, leading into the brief but pivotal title track Cryogenesis. The second half of the record delves into the melodic yet heavy Eternal Life which specifically explores the concept of transhumanism—followed by Obsession, the aggressive The Woman Strangler, and a powerful conclusion with Empty Words. With its razor-sharp production and thematic ambition, Cryogenesis has solidified Extinction's reputation as a formidable force in the modern European thrash-death scene, bridging the gap between old-school intensity and futuristic technicality.