In 2004, Pest offered the global black metal scene a powerful and raw EP, one that stands out as a defining moment in their discography. The EP set a high bar, not only surpassing the band’s previous releases but also showcasing a maturity in both songwriting and execution that many contemporaries struggled to match. In comparison, "In Total Contempt" brings a different energy, leaning more towards gritty, aggressive black metal in the vein of Darkthrone's early works. Its low-fidelity production, a hallmark of the genre, amplifies the album's misanthropic tone, stripping away any unnecessary polish to reveal a raw and unfiltered sound.
Musically, "In Total Contempt" offers no compromise. From the opening track "Thrones Ablaze," with its stomping riffs and relentless pace, Pest captures the chaotic essence of black metal. The album maintains this intensity throughout, with tracks like "Slaves of Celestial Bounds" and "Dreams of Life Seem Morbid" delivering a fierce barrage of raw, unrefined aggression. Vocally, the performance is sharp and throat-ripping, adding to the overall hostile atmosphere.
Despite its relentless energy, the album does leave some room for growth. While the songs embody the spirit of black metal, there’s a certain sameness in the composition that makes it difficult for individual tracks to truly stand out. However, there are moments, such as in “A Vengeance Rising,” where the band explores slower, more deliberate passages that introduce a sense of unease and tension.
"In Total Contempt" may not reach the heights of the band’s standout EP, but it certainly isn’t a misstep. Pest delivers a record that, while not revolutionary, is packed with enthusiasm and raw energy. Though it might not challenge the classics of the genre, it remains a solid representation of Sweden's black metal scene, with plenty to offer fans who appreciate the stripped-down, uncompromising approach of the genre.
