The Pitch: Polish black metal band Srogość, whose debut we covered prior to this site's full conception, has finally returned with a mixed release containing both old material and 3 brand new songs.
What I Like: These guys maintain a raw sound that combines influences from the second wave with more modern touches. Surprisingly, I prefer the demo material to the new songs. The sparse, grim production makes for a more open space for the music to occupy. They carry a genuine emotional weight that gets lost in material that precedes it.
What I Don't Like: I'm not going to lie. I was a little dissapointed by this release. The symphonic elements that created a cold, blizzard-like atmosphere on W szaleństwie have been removed, and the earworm hooks that previously prevailed have been replaced with a style that feels a little more generic in comparison.
The Verdict: Umbra Mortis / Nicość is a little bit of a letdown after the band impressed me with their 2014 effort. However, they still show promise, and with a full album on the horizon in 2017, I hope they can rally for something a little stronger. Be sure to check out W szaleństwie even if this one doesn't wow you.
Flight's Fav's: "Umbra Mortis," "Wilcze kurhany"