This reissue of Belgium's cult act BLACK SHEPHERD revives their 1988 classic with the original rejected cover artwork. The band recently uncovered original reel tapes from that year—although only four tracks remained. These have been meticulously remixed, restored, and remastered, while the remaining tracks have been carefully restored and remastered to preserve their raw power. This edition features extensive liner notes with insights from vocalist Yvan, along with a collection of rare vintage photos, providing a full look back at BLACK SHEPHERD's fierce legacy.
BLACK SHEPHERD’s Immortal Aggression is a raw force that defies boundaries, pushing thrash to a savage extreme that edges into black and death metal territory. Released through Punk Etc., this album finds itself in the fierce company of South American titans like Sarcófago and Vulcano, blending relentless speed and intensity with a raw, unfiltered sound. Despite hailing from Belgium, BLACK SHEPHERD channels the chaotic energy of Brazil's underground, packing each track with frantic tempos, jagged riffs, and unhinged solos that keep listeners on edge from start to finish.
Each track pulses with a feral, untamed energy that rarely slows down. Songs like "Make Love War" explode with searing guitar intros and Ivan Verhaegen’s harsh, echoing vocals that amplify the album's unrelenting pace. The self-titled track, with an intro reminiscent of Slayer’s "Evil Has No Boundaries," is a standout moment, plunging into a frenzied thrash assault that leaves no room for filler or restraint. It’s a brief but brutal album that captures the band’s no-compromise attitude.
The lo-fi production is a perfect match for BLACK SHEPHERD’s relentless approach, enhancing the atmosphere and giving the album a gritty, underground charm that feels almost primal. It's a sound that feels organic, as if recorded in a dimly lit basement, yet it’s effective in amplifying the visceral thrill of the music. Although BLACK SHEPHERD disbanded soon after this release, Immortal Aggression remains an unforgettable artifact of extreme metal, a blaring reminder of the power of thrash taken to its rawest, most uncompromising form. For anyone seeking a no-holds-barred thrash experience, this is essential listening.
