AMG Review of Solstice of Agony and Corrosion

Thom Jurek
All Music Guide

Chicago’s Oppressor was the only death metal band to emerge out of the Midwest during the mid-'90s. Their brand of technical, progressive, sometimes mathy version of the genre influenced many other bands who continued on to greater success -- and musically more adventurous terrain. They released three studio recordings, a live album, and contributed to numerous compilations. Mortal Records issued this 14-track comp and a bonus-live DVD to offer collectors not only of the band’s material, but also for the benefit of those metal historians who may have missed the original releases which are all out of print. Oppressor’s own music might have been somewhat samey sounding after awhile, but they broke new ground in the United States. This set is comprised of the very best of their music, making it a fine purchase for any fan of genre.