The Pitch: The highly anticipated second installment of The Suns Of Perdition series from Canadian black metal band Panzerfaust. This is Render Unto Eden via Eisenwald Productions. FFO: Deathspell Omega, Marduk, Schammasch
What I Like: Having previously reviewed the first album in this 4 part series, War Horrid War, I had certain expectations which were ultimately scattered to the wind. Whereas part 1 was a relatively focused blast of scorn and aggression that was appropriate to the violent themes contained within, Render Unto Eden is a much more meditative and atmospheric outing filled with slow burns. The plodding arrangements, while built upon some very purposeful use of repetition and negative space, are highly engaging and even hypnotic in nature. I'm a frequent dissenter when it comes to the more droning, atmosphere-driven side of black metal as it tends to lead me down the path of boredom; but fortunately in the same vein as masters like Schammasch, Deathspell Omega, and Regarde Les Hommes Tomber, Panzerfaust know how to take the usual ingredients and combine them in perfect proportion. And to be clear, there are still some mighty bursts of cathartic energy to be found, it's just that their more sparing use makes those flavors all the more satisfying when they make an appearance.
Critiques: Honestly I just can't wait to hear parts 3 and 4. There's a few spots here and there that I think could have been shaved down a hair for brevity's sake, but otherwise this is incredible stuff.
The Verdict: With this album series, Panzerfaust are making a strong case for why black metal listeners should really take notice of the band as a driving force in the modern state of the genre. But even on its own, Render Unto Earth is a beautifully dark and contemplative album that deserves your attention this year.
Flight's Fav's: The Faustian Pact, Areopagitic, The Snare of the Fowler
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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