HATE - Erebos (12" LP on Silver/Black Vinyl) ***SEAM SPLIT***

Poland’s Hate stands tall as a cornerstone of their homeland's extreme metal scene, alongside legends like Behemoth and Vader. Celebrating 20 years of relentless domination, their acclaimed Erebos album is now available for the first time on limited-edition colored vinyl. A true death metal juggernaut!

Poland has long been a fertile ground for extreme metal, and Hate’s Erebos stands as a testament to their ability to craft blistering blackened death metal with precision and power. Often compared to their compatriots Behemoth, Hate delivers an album that pays homage to the genre's titans while firmly establishing their own identity.

From the first moments of Lux Aeterna, the album’s opening salvo, Erebos captivates with its sheer weight and intensity. The production is robust and clear, showcasing Hate’s technical prowess without sounding overly polished or mechanical. The thick guitar tones and pummeling drum work form a foundation that balances aggression with a surprising amount of melody. Tracks like Quintessence of Higher Suffering and Transsubstance exemplify this approach, combining crushing riffs with intricate, layered arrangements.

Adam the First Sinner’s vocal delivery is a highlight, offering a commanding presence that complements the band’s fiery instrumentation. His deep growls carry an almost ritualistic energy, lending an air of mysticism to the album. Meanwhile, the rhythm section delivers an unrelenting barrage, with Hexen’s drumming anchoring the chaos with precision and flair.

While comparisons to Behemoth are inevitable, Erebos differentiates itself by weaving subtle black metal influences into its death metal core. Tracks like the title song and Luminous Horizon feature Middle Eastern-tinged melodies and atmospheric interludes that add depth to the relentless assault. These moments of nuance ensure the album remains engaging from start to finish.

That said, Erebos doesn’t completely reinvent the wheel. It adheres closely to the formula established by Poland’s death metal greats, which might deter listeners seeking groundbreaking innovation. However, for fans of the genre, Erebos is a masterclass in execution. It’s an album that thrives on its sheer ferocity and the undeniable skill of its creators.

Hate has crafted a work that stands as a worthy addition to the pantheon of Polish death metal. With Erebos, they’ve solidified their place among the scene’s elite, delivering an album that demands repeated listens. If you crave unrelenting intensity tempered with a touch of melody and atmosphere, Erebos is not to be missed.