Long sold out split reissued on CD for the first time. All new artwork and layout by Ainuliblis. Co-released with Goatprayer Records.
The split album from Revenant Marquis and Lamp of Murmuur, released by Death Kvlt Productions, is a mesmerizing showcase of two raw black metal acts, each bringing their own unique energy to the atmospheric underground. Revenant Marquis, hailing from Wales, delivers four chapters under the banner of "Wye is the Moon". These tracks exude urgency and grit, driven by relentless riffs, pounding percussion, and a murky, otherworldly vocal presence that simmers in the background like a cacophony of restless spirits. While the submerged vocal approach may divide listeners, the balance of intensity and eerie ambiance carries an undeniable power. Tracks like Part I burst with frenetic energy, while Part II drags listeners into a haunting realm of bleak, repetitive riffs and tortured atmospheres.
On the flip side, Lamp of Murmuur, based in Olympia, Washington, offers a masterclass in atmospheric raw black metal. From the ominous opening notes of "...And So Falls the Night", a synth-dominated piece with an unshakeable aura of dread, to the dynamic "Intercourse under the Ninth Spell", Lamp of Murmuur thrives in blending ferocity with a hypnotic, almost psychedelic undercurrent. The latter track is a standout, merging driving black metal grooves with spectral synth layers that elevate the composition into something both visceral and transcendent. "With the Moon as My Robe", though less immediately gripping, still boasts moments of animalistic aggression and a spellbinding, synth-heavy outro that leaves a lasting impression.
Together, these two projects create a dynamic and immersive experience, balancing Revenant Marquis's stormy intensity with Lamp of Murmuur's dark, melodic mysticism. The raw production enhances the split's frigid, otherworldly atmosphere, allowing the stark emotions and textures of the music to resonate deeply. While each band shines in its own right, Lamp of Murmuur's ability to infuse raw black metal with ethereal synth work makes their contributions particularly memorable. This split is a testament to the diverse yet complementary approaches within the genre, offering listeners a journey through raw, atmospheric black metal at its most captivating.
