The French have been consistent when it comes to black metal. They also have a rich history in the occult, with actual sects of devil worshippers flourishing in the 17th Century. More melodic than I expected going in, it bridges the intro to the first proper song and takes its time getting to the metal. Almost two minutes before the guitar turns up and the harsh vocals bring their scowl. At 11 minutes, I understand setting the stage, but some fat could be trimmed. I appreciate the nuance that is allow breathing room as things build up.
I also like the creepy melodies running through this that bring the choir of ghostly children bakc like something from a horror movie. The vocals shift to more of a shouted declaration by the end of the song. What is impressive is how they have no real desire to just hit you with a bunch of blast beats and are more interested in maintaining the mood, which is very effective as it sets them apart, and when the blast beats do come have more purpose because they have already been balanced by a dynamic contrast.
There are several interlude-like pieces bridging the songs with church bells and choirs. They keep it creepy for "Le refuge," but it is not hooky either. To their credit, it is atmospheric black metal that is not trying to be shoegaze. The last song does not stray from this, so while there is a uniform feel to this album, it does have enough ebb and flow to work, so I will give this one a 9. It drops February 27th on Antiq.
2.9
pst44
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