Embark on a journey to the somber shores of Australia, where the hues of grey intensify. Azgorh, the mastermind behind Drowning The Light, unveils the long-awaited vinyl re-release of the fifth album from 2007. This ultimate edition includes a bonus LP featuring the "Flames of Sacrifice" demo, the "Raptures of a Dead Aage" demo, and tracks from the split with Arkha Sva, among others from that era. Immerse yourself in the essence of cold, raw, desolate underground Black Metal—an embodiment of sorrowful hate that extinguishes your breath. This is the demise of summer in 2007, captured in haunting sonic waves.
In the realm of prolific artists, this particular musician, with only four years of output at the time of this review, has drawn parallels to the likes of Striborg. Despite the dissimilarity in musical styles, both have faced accusations of seemingly pulling their extensive discographies out of thin air. While some degree of improvisation may be involved, criticisms often stem from simple human envy. Detached from local metal community entanglements, a more objective observer can appreciate the music purely for its merits.
The album in question stands out positively, despite potential focal points for criticism such as the murky production or occasional pacing issues. However, the recording is clear enough to allow the instruments to shine, and skip-worthy moments are few. The appeal lies in its faithful adherence to old-school aesthetics, coupled with a palpable spirit and atmospheric quality. What sets the artist apart is the ability to introduce surprises, offering a refreshing experience for a reviewer familiar with a plethora of Black Metal acts that tend to sound similar.
The introductory piece sets a unique tone, incorporating a Slavonic feel with a resonant flute and stirring synth—a notable departure for an album on the "Slava Satan" label. The flute makes a fitting return in track 6, enhancing the song's overall impact. The title track exhibits a deliberate drop in production quality, contributing to a dungeon-like atmosphere. The formula relies on the repetition and interchange of epic and depressive riffs, culminating in a lengthy instrumental coda of epic proportions. The subsequent track breaks from this formula, introducing an embellished punk beat and evil synth sounds that transform the piece into an exciting dark song. The album concludes with "Last Breath," a sad acoustic piece with subdued synthesizers, omitting blasts and adding to the overall atmospheric richness.
While the album is relatively short, it effectively captures the essence. It stands as a testament to the artist's endurance in the Atmospheric Black Metal genre. Highlight tracks include "My Honour is True" and "To the End of Time Part II," making this a recommended listen for enthusiasts of the genre.
Side A:
1.The Cry of the Wolf01:45
2.Of Celtic Blood & Satanic Pride08:38
3.My Honour Is True03:37
4.Fight... till the Lonesome End04:40
Side B:
5.Immortal Bloodline03:51
6.To the End of Time Part II04:46
7.Lucifer, He Who Lights My Path04:35
8.Last Breath04:12
36:04
Side C - Flames of Sacrifice (Demo):
1.Blood on the Altar of Time
2.The Dead of Winter
3.Flames of Sacrifice
4.The Pathway to Oblivion
5.Last Sunset of a Dying Autumn, Pt. 2
Side D:
6.Vampyres of a Dead Age
7.The Call of Eternity
8.Broken Bones of a Decaying World
9.Mysteries That Lie Beneath the Blackest Oceans
10.The Weeping Moon
11.The Ruined Soul of a Blackened Past
12.Reversion to Beast
13.Tales Told in Scars br>
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