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Master's Hammer's Mantras is an audacious and bold step in their career, continuing the band?s tradition of defying genre expectations while adding new layers of experimental intrigue. From the very first track, "Typograf," it?s clear that this album doesn?t conform to traditional black metal formulas. With its pounding tympani, swirling guitar riffs, and organ-laced atmosphere, the song sets the stage for a unique experience. The guitars hint at the band?s early black metal roots, but the combination of elements like Gothic choirs and atmospheric synths creates a dense and captivating soundscape.
Throughout Mantras, the Czech group plays with genre conventions, mixing black/thrash riffs with avant-garde flourishes. Tracks like "Doman?n" seamlessly blend acoustic and electric melodies, while "A? J? Budu V Hrobe Hn?ti..." stands as a reminder of the band?s more straightforward, old-school black metal approach, with its crisp riffing and ominous organ tones. However, it's the more unexpected moments that make this album truly special. "Bodhi" introduces techno rhythms that wouldn?t be out of place on a Lords of Acid record, while still maintaining a metallic edge. This playful experimentation continues on "Cervené Blato," which combines sleazy rock riffs with bizarre, deep vocals and striking keyboards, creating an eccentric track that teeters on the edge of madness.
As the album progresses, Master's Hammer continues to push the boundaries. "Vrana" melds sleazy death metal with strange ambient sounds, and "Ganesha Mantra" fuses tribal rhythms with a cosmic energy that feels both experimental and strangely fitting. These moments of genre-bending creativity are what give Mantras its charm and keep listeners on their toes. The band refuses to be pigeonholed, constantly introducing elements that would feel out of place in a more traditional black metal album, but here, they feel like natural extensions of Master's Hammer's innovative spirit.
Though Mantras may not reach the iconic status of earlier works like Ritual or The Jilemnice Occultist, it presents a daring evolution of their sound. It?s an album that demands multiple listens, revealing new layers and eccentricities with each spin. Those looking for straightforward black metal may be left scratching their heads, but fans of the avant-garde will find much to appreciate in the band?s fearless exploration of sound and style.
Mantras proves once again that Master's Hammer is not content to rest on their past achievements. Instead, they continue to push forward into uncharted territory, making music that is as daring as it is entertaining.
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