The Pitch: The debut album from dominating one-man Swedish blackened death metal project, Svartkonst. FFO: Svart Crown, Nightmarer, Otargos
What I Like: I feel like my reviews have been lighter on the blackened side of things this year, but to be honest there just haven't been many albums worth talking about. Enter this crusher from Svartkonst. The album dropped quietly in June, and I am so glad that the man behind the madness brought it to my attention. This is what blackened death metal aspires to. It's what happens when you take the usual script to its absolute zenith. With the perfect synthesis of black metal angst with colossol death metal sound, Devil's Blood is a total ripper. The massive production, oppressive distortion, and pummeling double bass kick eviscerate the listener from beginning to end. Furthermore, Svartkonst infuse a series of infectious guitar leads into the proceedings that add a memorable sense of character to each individual track. Listen to that driving hook on the title track and you'll know what I'm talking about.
Critiques: It's a little on the long side. I would have appreciated shaving it down to a leaner 35 or so minutes. Less is more.
The Verdict: Devil's Blood is a total banger. Imbued deeply with the spirit of rock and roll, but caked in the infinite peril of black and death metal, Svartkonst truly gets what this is all about. Powerfully grim vocals and indelible riffage make this an album that every metalhead should hear in 2018. Listen and purchase right now.
Flight's Fav's: Black Light Burning, The Drought, Devil's Blood
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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