ALBUM REVIEW: Devouring Radiant Light – Skeletonwitch

After a rather tumultuous series of events in recent times it seems SKELETONWITCH have settled their ranks with the introduction of new vocalist Adam Clemans (ex-VEIL OF MAYA). 2018 sees their first album in five years and the follow up to Serpents Unleashed entitled Devouring Radiant Light which is due for release on July 20th via Prosthetic Records.

Fen of Shadows greets you with a composed, fanfare type intro before picking up the pace with some aggressive yet optimistic sounding guitar work. The black metal influences which were evident in what became SKELETONWITCH‘s signature sound still remain but this feels like a new revitalised sound. Kind of like ushering in a new era. After such a lengthy gap between albums this was to be expected and it’s by no means a negative, if anything it sounds more refined and atmospheric. This energy cascades into When Paradise Fades as the intensity starts to pick up with some galloping riffing and melodic accompanying lead work. Adam Clemans sounds right at home bringing his gritty screeching into play. The track becomes progressively darker as it advances throwing some blastbeats in to devastating effect. Temple of the Sun continues the abrasive black metal elements whilst maintaining the quickened pace in what becomes quite an intense affair towards the midway point. Impressive solo work and the transitions between demonic chanting and melodic floating vocals elevate this track adding further levels of diversity.

Devouring Radiant Light could initially be mistaken for an OPETH track with its intricate yet restrained instrumentation. Within the first minute it automatically exudes the feeling that it is building up to be an epic. The progressive style vibe feels like uncharted territory for SKELETONWITCH but it is most welcome. The tempo ebbs and flows but the intensity never falters as frenzied drumming and sturdy bass lines create a formidable force. The metamorphosis from their former selves has well and truly been realised.

The dramatic riffing of The Luminous Sky will incite fist pumping as far as the eye can see. The thrashier riffing starts to shine through as Clemans‘ guttural barrage sounds utterly vicious. This track would be perfect to get those circle pits warmed up. The Vault takes a more melancholy approach with leisurely guitar work, as the heaviness begins to build the doom metal elements become more potent. It almost feels like the initial stages have been provided as an opportunity for contemplation, to fully digest what has been displayed thus far and the musical development that has been encountered. As the song progresses the vibrant black metal vibes return as the track floats between ambience and groove ridden guitar work.

Carnarium Eternal provides no rest after the opus that has just unfolded as the rapid guitar work continues, The midway point of this track is particularly impressive as the chugging riffing and ominous growling sound downright evil. Despite being one of the shortest tracks on the album it is one of the most effective. Sacred Soil sustains the already established tempo and vigour as the track showers you in further black metal atmospherics and ties all the elements unearthed within Devouring Radiant Light together for one final grand eruption of intensity, bringing the album to a  fitting conclusion.

Devouring Radiant Light feels like experiencing the act of reincarnation. What is remarkable about SKELETONWITCH is that they are 15 years and six albums deep into their career and have still managed to evolve their sound dramatically whilst still maintaining a level of historical influence from their previous material. Clemans feels like he has been part of the band from the beginning as he seamlessly slots into place, gracing the instrumentation with the impeccable range of ferocity at his disposal. SKELETONWITCH‘s revitalised sound will cause outbursts of pure joy from their faithful followers as well as turn the heads of countless others. If you’re not familiar with their work it’s the perfect chance to get yourself acquainted!

Rating: 9/10

Devouring Radiant Light is set for release on July 20th via Prosthetic Records.

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