Ad Se Ipsum

Dedicating their bandship and name to the vile 14th century plague of Europe, this band expresses their hatred through early 90s Black Metal worship, especially that of European origin. Originality is in store here, but a lot of it is brought out from earlier bonds with bands such as Burzum and the early Isengard demos. Raw black metal it is not unfortunately or fortunately, depending on your taste. For some bizarre reason, the band seems to be under that title. It is far more violent in the way of vocals, as the high screams and yells contribute to the audio violence; however, the music is far from violent. The band consists of Alax, Mrok, Mr. Blasphemy, and Scum, all who seem to be in this project only. The band is currently on Ketzer Records.

Down to the music. Early chaotic black metal in vein of Torture with accents on melody in the stylings of Ildjarn sideproject Sort Vokter, and with bass audible all through the destruction. It's a slap in the face for those expecting "black metal" written in 2002 and a disappointment for those expecting to hear raw black metal.

The first track is merely an electro entry to the next track, which starts the album off at quite a moderate rate. Some of this 90s worship is quite in the midst of development. It sounds up to par, and some parts have a tendancy to contain a sound assertively sorrowful and depressive. The fifth track "Onwards to Destroy" is a sure example of this, as it evolves from melodic atmosphere-led black metal to blasting brutality into an acoustic riff just before the four minute mark. These songs contain everything from battle riffs to forest metal soundscapes.

Almost soothing acoustic riffing breaks in at song six, an intrlude titled in German, the native tongue of these European black metallers. "Armageddon" fucking attakks the ears with some assualt thrashmetal drumming and some badass oldschool blackened riffs. These tunes aren't just noise nor atmospheric nonsense. This is some fast cross-shredding shit, I think.

Overall, very impressive release that surprised me even on the first listen. I can compare to several bands which had attempted a similar sound in the 90s, but when it comes down to it, this is much more original. My slightest beef is that I have no idea the origins of the band and what other members were involved in. The album hails a new inversion to the death of man and Christ. AVE 666! Let PEST rest in the prelude to the end!!!

© CanadianMetal.com 2006