🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Volens Discordant
Track 2: EPIC
Track 3: Miserere
Track 4: Exercitus Irae
Track 5: Mephisto Manifesto
Track 6: Scorcher
Track 7: Invictus
Track 8: Nature’s Fangs
Track 9: Spoils of War
🎸 Album Review:
Vltimas, the extreme metal supergroup comprising David Vincent (ex-Morbid Angel), Rune Eriksen (ex-Mayhem), and Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy), has unleashed their sophomore album ‘Epic’ upon the metal world. This nine-track offering is a sonic assault that encapsulates the essence of blackened death metal while pushing the boundaries of brutality and technicality.
From the opening track “Volens Discordant,” Vltimas sets the tone for what is to come with its relentless blast beats, crushing riffs, and Vincent’s trademark guttural vocals. The title track “EPIC” follows suit, living up to its name with its epic scale and grandiose atmosphere. The juxtaposition of Eriksen’s razor-sharp guitar work and Mounier’s precision drumming creates a whirlwind of chaos that is both exhilarating and daunting.
Thematically, ‘Epic’ delves into dark and introspective subject matter, touching on themes of war, death, and inner turmoil. Tracks like “Miserere” and “Exercitus Irae” showcase the band’s ability to create a haunting and ominous atmosphere, drawing the listener into a nightmarish world of despair and desolation. The lyrical content, coupled with the ferocity of the music, creates a visceral experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Standout tracks on the album include “Mephisto Manifesto,” a relentless onslaught of blistering riffs and relentless aggression. Vincent’s vocals reach new depths of malevolence, adding an extra layer of intensity to the already searing instrumentation. “Scorcher” is another highlight, featuring intricate guitar work that weaves in and out of Mounier’s thunderous drumming, creating a dynamic and captivating sonic landscape.
In comparison to Vltimas’ debut album ‘Something Wicked Marches In,’ ‘Epic’ sees the band further refining their sound and pushing their creative boundaries. While the debut showcased the raw talent and potential of the trio, ‘Epic’ solidifies their place as a force to be reckoned with in the extreme metal scene. The production on this album is top-notch, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive and crushing sound.
The closing track “Spoils of War” brings the album to a climactic finish, with its relentless pace and unrelenting aggression leaving the listener breathless. The intricate guitar solos and thunderous drumming create a sense of urgency and chaos that perfectly encapsulates the album as a whole.
Overall, ‘Epic’ by Vltimas is a tour de force in blackened death metal, showcasing the band’s technical prowess and unbridled aggression. The album is a relentless assault on the senses, taking the listener on a harrowing journey through the darkest corners of the human psyche. With its crushing riffs, blistering solos, and Vincent’s menacing vocals, ‘Epic’ is a testament to the power and intensity of extreme metal.
Vltimas has crafted an album that is as challenging as it is rewarding, pushing the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its roots. ‘Epic’ is a must-listen for fans of extreme metal and a testament to the talent and creativity of this powerhouse trio. In a genre saturated with mediocrity, Vltimas stands out as a beacon of excellence, delivering an album that is truly epic in every sense of the word.