Ruïm, the brainchild of black metal veteran Blasphemer (Mayhem, Aura Noir), unleashes a potent debut album, “Black Royal Spiritism – I. O Sino da Igreja.” This offering transcends traditional black metal, weaving a tapestry of blistering aggression, haunting atmosphere, and unexpected melody.
The album opens with the epic “Blood.Sacrifice.Enthronement,” a microcosm of Ruïm’s approach. The track begins with an ominous crawl, building tension before erupting into a maelstrom of blast beats and scathing guitars. Blasphemer’s signature raspy vocals snarl pronouncements of dark magic, occasionally giving way to cleaner, almost mournful passages. This interplay between ferociousness and melancholic beauty is a recurring theme throughout the album.
Tracks like “The Triumph (Of Night & Fire)” and “The Black House” showcase Ruïm’s ability to balance blistering speed with memorable melodies. The guitars weave intricate patterns, punctuated by César “CSR” Vesvre’s (drums) relentless assault. While some moments flirt with the raw fury of classic black metal, there’s a clear focus on crafting impactful riffs and unsettling atmospherics.
A surprising twist comes with “Ao Rio,” a melancholic ballad sung entirely in Portuguese. This unexpected shift in language and tone adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the album’s narrative. It’s a testament to Ruïm’s ability to weave diverse elements into a cohesive whole.
“Black Royal Spiritism – I. O Sino da Igreja” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s an immersive experience. The album draws inspiration from Brazilian witchcraft and Umbanda traditions, and this influence permeates the music’s atmosphere. There’s a sense of ritual and invocation, a feeling of being transported to a different plane of existence.
The album isn’t without its challenges. Its dense, layered approach might take some listeners time to fully appreciate. However, for those willing to delve into its depths, “Black Royal Spiritism – I. O Sino da Igreja” offers a rewarding and unsettling journey.
Verdict: Ruïm’s debut is a triumph of atmosphere and aggression. Blasphemer and CSR weave a tapestry of black metal fury, haunting melodies, and unexpected twists. This is a must-listen for fans of extreme metal seeking an experience that pushes boundaries.
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