The first time I had learned of THE CHASM was the extra-mural reading. Skimming the article in Terrorizer magazine I had found myself stuck in what, musically, those Brazilians are. But two years passed before I really got an opportunity of checking them out. "The Spell Of Retribution" is the band's debut for Earache/Wicked World. Since starting in 1992 THE CHASM had got no good will in order to attract the reckless cloud eye of more or less major label and consequently wide distribution around the world. Therefore, the band's name is almost blank words for Russian metal fans. As it follows from some musical issues, THE CHASM are firmly seated on the epic metal stage. Even though they serve us an overdrive mix of thrash and black elements they have their own trait in sound, sharky and ice-burn. Playing live for last devil's dozen of years, THE CHASM have developed the filigrant musicians of themselves. Atmospheric guitar harmonies stream with ease along the passages of booming cubic rhythms, and the hungry beastial voice is a last brick in a wall of frosty sound. Official press paper is cunning as ever, by the way I cannot find the "ethnic feel" they decided should be there. Despite that, I could recommend this album either for a classic metal fan or for a brutal maniacs - these guys are rarely talented. They blend anciency with hi-end and do this way that none others do.