| Hellias’ Blind Destiny is a fascinating exercise in gothic-tinged thrash, one that sees the Polish outfit refining their darkly atmospheric approach while still keeping a firm grip on their aggressive roots. While their debut Closed in the Fate Coffin balanced blitzkrieg thrashers with slower, brooding passages, this sophomore effort leans even further into haunting melodies and gothic textures, creating a unique hybrid that stands apart from the more straightforward thrash acts of the early ’90s.
Opening with Descent from the Cross, the band delivers a sharp and energetic thrasher that reassures fans of their ability to unleash speed and power when needed. However, it quickly becomes apparent that Blind Destiny is a more intricate beast, as Written to Loss follows with a mesmerizing, semi-technical arrangement that brings to mind the atmosphere of Fear of God’sBeyond the Veil. These shifting dynamics between aggression and melancholy define the album’s core identity, though at times, the balance tilts in favor of the latter. Tracks like The Rain and Depths push the gothic aesthetic further, featuring a surprisingly effective clean vocal delivery that adds an emotional weight rarely found in the band’s earlier work.
Just when the album threatens to lose itself in somber introspection, Stones for the Man (The Last Leaves) and Silence in My Brain pull things back into the thrash realm, offering controlled yet potent bursts of riff-driven energy. However, the album’s structure leans heavily on its moodier elements, which, while effective in establishing a cohesive atmosphere, may leave fans yearning for a more even distribution of speed and intensity.
Despite a few pacing missteps, Blind Destiny remains an intriguing listen, showcasing Hellias’ willingness to experiment within their thrash foundations. The album thrives on its gloomy ambiance, with a sense of fatalistic drama woven throughout its melodies and lyrical themes. While the closing moments falter—particularly with the out-of-place Rap-Sody Drink—the overall experience remains immersive, demonstrating the band’s evolution beyond mere thrash revivalism.
Though their later work would take them into heavier post-thrash territory, Blind Destiny stands as a testament to Hellias’ ambition, marking a bold step into a more shadowy, melancholic realm of metal.
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