German progressive death metal outfit Alkaloid returns with “Numen,” their third full-length album. Following the critically acclaimed “Liquid Anatomy” (2018), “Numen” finds the band pushing the boundaries of the genre even further, with a dizzying blend of technical mastery, Lovecraftian influences, and moments of unexpected beauty. Does “Numen” solidify Alkaloid’s position as progressive death metal innovators, or does it get lost in its own ambition? Let’s strap ourselves in and embark on this sonic journey through celestial spheres and cosmic horrors.
A Masterclass in Technical Proficiency:
From the opening notes of “Qliphosis,” it’s clear that Alkaloid is operating at the peak of their technical prowess. Christian Münzer (ex-Obscura) unleashes a torrent of mind-bending riffs, while Linus Klausenitzer (ex-Obscura) lays down a thunderous bass foundation. Hannes Grossmann (ex-Obscura, Blotted Science) delivers a masterclass in drumming, seamlessly switching between pummeling blast beats and intricate jazz-fusion inspired fills. Morean (ex-Dark Fortress) growls with venomous intensity, adding another layer of aggression to the sonic assault.
A Journey Through Cosmic Horrors and Existential Dread:
Lyrically, “Numen” delves into the world of H.P. Lovecraft, exploring themes of cosmic horror, existential dread, and the insignificance of humanity in the face of a vast and uncaring universe. This thematic exploration perfectly complements the album’s technical complexity, creating a sense of awe-inspiring terror that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally unsettling.
A Tapestry of Soundscapes: From Brutality to Beauty:
“Numen” isn’t just about relentless brutality. The album showcases Alkaloid’s ability to weave moments of unexpected beauty into the fabric of their sound. Clean vocals make a welcome appearance on tracks like “The Malkuth Grimoire (Second Chapter),” adding a layer of melancholic grandeur. Instrumental passages like the intro to “The Folding” provide a respite from the sonic onslaught, allowing the listener to appreciate the band’s musicianship and compositional skills.
Pushing the Boundaries: A Double-Edged Sword:
Alkaloid’s ambition on “Numen” is both its greatest strength and its potential weakness. The constant genre-bending and unpredictable song structures might alienate some listeners who prefer a more straightforward approach. The album’s lengthy runtime, clocking in at over an hour, demands a significant time investment from the listener.
A Rewarding Listen for Progressive Metal Adventurers:
Despite these potential drawbacks, “Numen” is a rewarding listen for fans of progressive metal with an adventurous spirit. The album is a testament to Alkaloid’s technical prowess, compositional creativity, and their willingness to push the boundaries of the genre. With its blend of brutality, beauty, and cosmic horror, “Numen” is a journey that will stay with you long after the final note fades.
A Sprawling Epic for Discerning Listeners:
“Numen” is not for the faint of heart. It’s a sprawling epic that demands repeated listens to fully appreciate its intricate details. However, for those willing to invest the time and effort, “Numen” is a rewarding experience that showcases Alkaloid’s position at the forefront of progressive death metal. Prepare to be challenged, bewildered, and ultimately impressed by this sonic odyssey.
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