The Pitch: It's finally here after several months delay! Saddle up, Dimmu Borgir fans, there's a new symphonic black metal sheriff in town. Also FFO Septicflesh, Emperor, Cradle of Filth.
What I Like: So this is Dimmu worship right down to the dramatic strings, croaking shrieks, and even occasional Vortex cleans. Or I suppose you could argue it's more like 75% DB, 25% Anaal Nathrakh. In any case, very few points for originality...but they do it SO well. Furthermore, it rminds me of DImmu at the height of their game during the Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia/Death Cult Armageddon years. Who doesn't want more of that? Crushing guitars, well-implemented classical additions, and strong production from Mick Kenney (Anaal Nathrakh, wouldn't cha know it) really broaden the scope of this truly epic and pretty consistent album.
What I Don't Like: Again, not much innovation going on here. One might argue as to why they should listen to this over their collection of old DB works. I like it enough to get past that, but if they want to take it to the next level some differentiation is in order. Also, while I like the two part "Haereticus Stellarum," it messes up the flow of the album imo. These two tracks have a different feel to them and might have worked better as a seperate EP.
The Verdict: If you're craving more of that early 2000's extreme symphonic metal, Chaosborne will not do you wrong. There may be some question of redundancy, but I think it is forgiveable given the quality.
Flight's Fav's: And None Shall Rise..., Sed Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam, From The Mouth Ov The Black Icons
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