2013 LP re-issue import from France, released by Norma Evangelium Diaboli. Comes with a 12-page booklet and poster.
The long-awaited full-length album from the cult Black Metal horde is finally here, following printing delays due to its "morally objectionable" content. Spanning 43 minutes, the album features 10 tracks, including six devastating songs interspersed with eerie subliminal interludes. This release is a must for fans of underground Teutonic darkness, evoking the sinister atmospheres of FUNERAL MIST, ONDSKAPT, SATANIC WARMASTER, WATAIN, DEATHSPELL OMEGA, and more!
Katharsis' second full-length album, Kruzifixxion, takes the raw black metal formula and pushes it deeper into unsettling and sinister territory. Following their earlier release, 666, this album showcases a significant evolution, offering a darker, more atmospheric experience that rewards repeated listening.
The album's cover art, created by Jon Thorns, immediately sets the tone with one of the most fitting visuals in the black metal genre—truly a work of art that mirrors the intensity and darkness of the music within. Musically, Kruzifixxion features extended tracks, with the exception of the brief yet powerful "Luziferion." Interspersed with eerie interludes, the album’s structure masterfully balances slow, ritualistic sections with explosive bursts of speed and aggression, creating a dynamic flow that keeps the listener engaged.
The guitars, with their thin, sharp tone, weave a haunting atmosphere, while the solid drumming provides a steady backbone. The bass work is subtle but complements the compositions effectively. Vocalist Drakh delivers an unforgettable performance, with his deep, raspy growls and occasional high-pitched screams adding to the album's unsettling aura. The production, while slightly rawer than 666, enhances the overall mood, lending the music an archaic and ritualistic feel.
Lyrically, the album delves into themes of satanic reverence, with Drakh's impassioned delivery elevating the material to an almost apocalyptic grandeur. Each song feels like a descent into a darker realm, with every element—from the music to the vocals to the lyrics—working in harmony to create a truly immersive black metal experience.
Kruzifixxion proves that Katharsis doesn't need to reinvent the genre to create something remarkable. Their unwavering commitment to the darker side of black metal, paired with their ability to craft an oppressive and inescapable atmosphere, makes this album a must-listen for fans of the genre. It's a raw and captivating journey that solidifies Katharsis' place among black metal’s elite.
