Mizmor – Prosiac

A.L.N., the mastermind behind the one-man black metal project Mizmor, returns with “Prosaic,” a departure from the band’s usual conceptual narratives. This album focuses on delivering pure, unadulterated black metal fury in a concise and focused package.

Track-by-Track:

• Only an Expanse: The opening track throws the listener headfirst into the abyss. A cacophony of blast beats, distorted guitars, and A.L.N.’s signature anguished shrieks creates a suffocating atmosphere. Around the four-minute mark, the song shifts gears, introducing a slow-burning, doom-laden riff that showcases the album’s dynamic range.
• The Great Depths: This track builds upon the foundation laid by “Only an Expanse.” Relentless drumming and a mid-tempo riff propel the song forward, while A.L.N. weaves tales of despair and existential dread through his tortured vocals.
• Acceptance: A sense of melancholic beauty emerges on “Acceptance.” The song features clean guitar passages that intertwine with the distortion, creating a sense of emotional vulnerability amidst the sonic onslaught. The track’s dynamic shifts keep the listener engaged, showcasing Mizmor’s ability to craft memorable compositions without relying solely on aggression.
• The Suffering Stream: “The Suffering Stream” injects a dose of frenetic energy into the album. Breakneck drumming and a chaotic riff create a sense of desperate urgency. The song is a perfect example of Mizmor’s ability to evoke a feeling of complete emotional breakdown through pure sonic assault.
• Hope is a Sickness: The album’s title track, “Prosaic,” offers a brief moment of respite. Clean guitars and a melancholic melody create a sense of introspective contemplation before the song explodes back into a furious display of black metal savagery.
• All Things Must Pass: The closing track brings “Prosaic” to a fittingly bleak conclusion. A slow-burning doom riff lays the foundation for A.L.N.’s most despairing vocal performance on the album. The track leaves a sense of crushing hopelessness in its wake, a powerful emotional conclusion to a potent listening experience.

Verdict:

“Prosaic” is a triumph for Mizmor. While lacking the complex narratives of previous albums, it delivers a masterclass in stripped-down black metal aggression. The songwriting is concise and focused, with each track offering a unique emotional journey within the confines of the genre. The album’s production is also noteworthy, with a raw and organic sound that perfectly complements the music’s intensity. For fans of black metal seeking a fresh and potent dose of aural punishment, “Prosaic” is a must-listen.

Score: 4.5 out of 5