Limited edition vinyl + A2 poster. Comes with double sided A4 insert on 140gsm paper, A2 poster on 150gsm art paper, housed in a 300 gsm coated carton outer sleeve.
Long overdue re-issue of the 1995 "Dark Sorcery" mini album with the 1994 demo "Walk My Path" as bonus! Essential classic northern dark metal!
Aeternus is a band that stands out in the Norwegian metal scene for their distinctive and original style. Despite emerging during the golden era of Norwegian black metal, they carved a unique path, distinct from the more renowned bands of the time like Gorgoroth, Darkthrone, Emperor, or Immortal. Their music has a signature sound that sets them apart; once you hear it, you immediately recognize it as Aeternus.
One of the remarkable aspects of Aeternus is that they had this unique sound right from their inception, which is quite rare. While all their albums are enjoyable, their early recordings hold a special place, with the "Dark Sorcery" EP being a standout piece. Clocking in at just 27 minutes, it's more accessible and easier to dive into. Aeternus has a tendency towards a somewhat monotonous feel, often employing slow-paced tempos with heavy riffage and Ares' deep, monstrous growls. This approach works exceptionally well on shorter recordings like "Dark Sorcery," which boasts no weak moments.
Their music blends elements of black metal with a dark, epic, and monumental sound akin to bands like Hades, yet with a distinctiveness that sets them apart. Their style also incorporates elements of death metal, with an overwhelming heaviness and Ares' vocals sounding like a summons to the gods on the battlefield. Aeternus' riffing is particularly noteworthy, combining heaviness with majestic melodies and occasional folky tunes. Tracks like "Raven and Blood" and "Victory" exemplify their thunderous, warlike sound.
Overall, Aeternus is an essential part of the Norwegian metal scene, offering music that is monumental, epic, and truly destructive. While it may seem one-dimensional at first, their songs reveal intricate details upon closer listening, such as melodic elements, acoustic guitar parts, and haunting vocals, all contributing to a fantastic atmosphere. If you're not familiar with Aeternus, it's time to check them out and experience their unique brand of metal.
