ALBUM REVIEW: Mardom – Darkened Nocturn Slaughtercult
DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT are one of the unsung heroes of black metal. Since 1997, the German-based horde led by the formidable and long-standing duo of Onielar and Velnias have stuck to the traditional core values of black metal and as such, have forged a career of blasphemy and razor-sharp musical ferocity. Fast forward to 2019 and six years after the release of their last album, 2013’s Necrovision, and album number six Mardom is here.
Those expecting a radical departure of their existing sound may be disappointed, but at this point, no would anticipate DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT to abandon their dedication to the genre’s roots. At it’s blackened and hateful core, Mardom is a ferocious record; one which firmly sticks to the foundations of black metal alongside conjuring some delightful nostalgia towards the genre’s infamous second wave.
It all begins with Inception of Atemporal Transition, a hauntingly chilling atmospheric number which serves as the introductory track to the record. The decision to build anticipation works a treat as suspense is maintained over the course of the track before the band explode into life with Mardom – Echo Zmory. Here, a striking precedent is made as a barrage of blast beats from Horrn roar the album into life before subsiding into blistering dual guitar riffing from Velnias and Onielar, the former delivering bout after bout of twisted vocal shrieks. It’s a bold opening and sets the record up nicely for what follows.
From there, DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT proceed to dispatch an album of breathtaking ferocity. A Sweven Most Devout builds upon the breakneck speed of Mardom – Echo Zmory as riffs intertwine menacingly with the relentless drumming to create a sonic maelstrom. Particular of note here is the crisp production that allows each element of the band’s misanthropic soundscape to sound crystal clear and therefore making it all the more menacing.
Indeed, the production is an unsung hero to DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT‘s sonic delivery but the skill and craftsmanship of the quartet remains the album’s biggest seller. T.O.W.D.A.T.H.A.B.T.E features splashes of technical trickery in the guitar department as frost-bitten riffing bounce off the groove-focussed basslines from Adversarius, and the Scandinavian black metal-esque closure proves to be a stand-out moment on the record. Also, the subtle atmospherics lying under the surface adds an extra level of spine-tingling chill to the experience.
With a record as relentless as this, it would be fair to suggest that the album’s second half may stutter in comparison to the opening barrage but DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT have built their name on consistency and Mardom is just that. Exaudi Domine features another masterclass of black metal riffing and Onielar impresses once again with expertly dispatched vocal howls and shrieks whilst the ambient-driven interlude Widma works a treat to introduce the mid-tempo monster that is Imperishable Soulless Gown. Here, DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT are at their best as Onielar‘s rasping vocals hold their ground against the wicked onslaught of riffing and thunderous drumming. It’s a gem on the album and more than demonstrates the quality within the band’s repertoire. Even finale The Sphere refuses to lower the intensity as the last bout from DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT is one that is packed to the brim with whirlwind riffing, howling vocals and a icy layer of misanthropic hate. Quite frankly, it’s absolutely brilliant and you’ll be hard-pressed not to get absorbed into the mirky atmosphere.
With Mardom, DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT have served up a ferocious and chilling reminder of why they are one of black metal’s premier acts. Whilst the album won’t reinvent the wheel, what this album represents is a band dedicated to the core musical characteristics of black metal, and with that in mind, they utterly excel at it. Cold and brimming with hate, Mardom is a fierce listen and makes for one hell of a ride. Strap yourself in.
Rating: 9/10
Mardom is out now via War Anthem Records.
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