Slovakian atmospheric black metal outfit Malokarpatan unleashed their latest offering, “Vertumnus Caesar,” in October 2023. The album takes listeners on a journey through a soundscape that blends the ferocity of black metal with the grandeur of epic heavy metal.
While elements of black metal are present in the scorching vocals and moments of blast beats, “Vertumnus Caesar” is far from a one-dimensional assault. The band weaves in intricate guitar work, melancholic melodies, and unexpected shifts in tempo, creating a truly captivating experience.
The opening track, with its title translating to “A Starry Castle Opens on the Edge of the Abyss” in Slovakian, sets the tone for the album. It’s a slow-burning instrumental that builds atmosphere with its haunting melodies and pounding drums. This segues perfectly into “Vertumnus Caesar,” the title track, which explodes with aggressive energy while maintaining a sense of epic grandeur.
Malokarpatan’s knack for storytelling shines throughout the album. Song titles like “The Dominion of Salamanders Lies in the Earth’s Caverns” and “The Many Torments of Lord Kelley” hint at the fantastical and esoteric lyrical themes.
The album doesn’t shy away from experimentation. Tracks like “Panstvo Salamandrov Jest v Kavernách Zeme” (translated as “The Dominion of Salamanders Lies in the Earth’s Caverns”) showcase the band’s ability to seamlessly blend genres. It starts with intricate, almost jazzy guitar work before taking a detour into a majestic forest soundscape complete with what sounds like ethereal flutes.
“Vertumnus Caesar” is a rewarding listen for fans of atmospheric black metal and those who appreciate bands that push boundaries. The album is a masterclass in atmosphere, songwriting, and musicianship, solidifying Malokarpatan’s position as a leading force in the genre.
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