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After 12 long years, Hell-Born roars back onto the scene with Natas Liah, an album that not only cements their legacy but redefines the heights of their craft. Founded in 1996 by Behemoth co-founder Baal and Les, also a former member of Damnation, Hell-Born’s pedigree is undeniable. With nine tracks of ferocious blackened death metal tempered by their signature touch of melody, this is easily their most accomplished work to date—and by their own admission, their best album ever.
From the moment the opening track unfurls, Natas Liah delivers a relentless barrage of riffs, blistering rhythms, and Baal's guttural roars. Each track carries Hell-Born’s unmistakable old-school energy, yet the band has honed their sound into something sharper, more refined, and utterly captivating. The songwriting leans heavily into their black and death metal roots while weaving in irresistible grooves and melodic flourishes, as heard in standout tracks like "Uroboros." It’s a masterclass in balancing chaotic aggression with carefully constructed compositions, creating peaks of intensity bridged by haunting, atmospheric moments.
Guest appearances, including Adam "Nergal" Darski of Behemoth, add another layer of intrigue to the album. The collaborative energy is palpable, elevating the material without overshadowing Hell-Born’s core identity. Tracks like "Ye Olde Woods Devil" and "Soulrape" showcase this perfectly, blending scorching tremolo riffing with thrash-inspired momentum and swampy, old-school death metal heft.
While death metal dominates the sonic palette, the black metal influences are evident in the chilling harmonies and icy atmospheres scattered throughout. The album’s production is another standout feature: modern and punchy, yet maintaining an organic edge that amplifies the raw power of the music. Every riff crunches, every drum hit lands with weight, and the melodies soar without losing their menacing edge.
At nearly 47 minutes, Natas Liah offers a substantial listening experience, but Hell-Born keeps the energy and intrigue alive across all nine tracks. The diversity within the album—from the doomy, sludgy passages to the full-throttle blasts of aggression—ensures it never feels repetitive. The return to form is undeniable, and this release solidifies Hell-Born’s place among the greats of Polish extreme metal.
With Natas Liah, Hell-Born doesn’t just pick up where they left off; they carve a new path forward while staying true to their roots. This is essential listening for fans of blackened death metal, and a triumphant return for a band that’s been sorely missed. Don’t hesitate to grab a physical copy—it’s worth every second.
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