Crocell – Swarm of Insects Review: Black/Death Metal from Denmark (2026)

 

Crocell – Swarm of Insects album cover, black death metal Denmark 2026

Artist: Crocell
Origin: Denmark
Label: Emanzipation Productions
Released: May 29, 2026
Genre: Black/Death Metal
Rating: 6/10
Listen/Buy: Bandcamp

Crocell – Swarm of Insects leaves me with mixed feelings,the band has a great sound, dark and brutal vocals, solid production and several moments where it really hits. But it's hard to shake the feeling that we've heard this before ,and maybe heard it better too.

That doesn't make this a bad album. Far from it. Swarm of Insects is well executed and at times really strong. I do hear less death metal than expected though, and a lot more black metal, atmosphere and dark melody.On its highlights , there's a nice blend of rawness, melancholy and melodic drive.

The highlight for me is Traitors' Blood,this  track that stands out the most,because you can hear a hint of thrash here ,and that's never a bad thing. The vocals are dark, raw and brutal, and fit the expression perfectly.

The guitars are sharp and present throughout, drums are on point, and the bass does a solid job. On the melodic side, this is where the band really shines.

The production is solid, and the soundscape hits you right where it's supposed to, and really lets all the instruments shine through the whole record.

Still, the album doesn't quite stick. It has its strong moments, but also stretches that get a bit too anonymous. Swarm of Insects is a good and solid album, but also one that at times gets a little dull and unfortunately a little too easy to forget.

Rating: 6/10

I'll be spinning more albums — stay tuned!

Hauk


If you enjoyed this, check out:
Via Doloris – Guerre et Paix Review
Dissentient – Black Galactic Review
Revolting – Supernatural Anthems Review
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