Tried and true warriors all know of the greatness of DISSECTION’s classic, The Somberlain, released in 1993. The album featured guitarist John Zwetsloot’s skills and knowledge in not only the composition of the songs but also in the classical guitar songs that he played throughout the album. He left the band in 1994 and eventually started CARDINAL SIN.

The band’s sole release, Spiteful Intent, is more or less The Somberlain’s little brother. Zwetsloot’s familiar classical guitars, blazing dual guitar melodies, dynamic songs, and a melancholic feel are this release’s bread and butter. The organic, natural production is also a great reminder of that era of Swedish metal. Bass is clear in the mix and the drums do not sound processed.

The only downside is that Spiteful Intent is only an EP - three songs and one acoustic outro. Perhaps, a full length would’ve been great or not so great. We’ll never know. This EP goes for a good amount of money on ebay.com since it’s been long out of print…a natural result of being released on a small underground label in limited numbers with limited distribution.

As a little tid bit, Zwetsloot tried out for the vacant guitar spot in THE HAUNTED prior to the band giving it to Anders Bjorler.

Here are the first three songs for your listening pleasure: