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7 out of 10
I’ve never been overly keen on the constant guttural growling of "brutal" death metal vocalists, and neither am I particularly partial to the "let’s record our album down a well" production values of kvlter than thou black metal bands. I jest of course, but all the same, In Aeternum’s mashed style of blackened death metal pushes all my buttons. At least, it does at first. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take me long to realise that they stand out from the hordes of other similar bands like a pair of black shoes at a goth footwear convention.
They’ve never quite become a household name in black/death metal circles despite having existed for over a decade, but that’s not for the want of trying. With four full-length albums and at least as many EPs under their collective belts, ’Curse of Devastation’ sees them once again attempting to break through and show the world they’ve got what it takes. So why the constant brick walls? Perhaps not commercial enough to appeal to the masses, yet too melodic for ladies and gentlemen of the grimmer persuasion, In Aeternum fall squarely into the "not bad" category, sitting comfortably next to Lord Belial. They’re in good hands, mind you; Pulverised Records have a strong history and can reel off a list of bands they’ve worked with that would be pornography to any self-respecting black/death metal fan (Amon Amarth, Theory In Practice, Dissection and Watain to name but a few).
This latest EP proves they are nowhere near as essential as heavyweights like Behemoth or Marduk, but it proves to be a solid enough effort all the same. Tracks like ’New World Filth’ reveal that In Aeternum can play tight, fast, and with conviction. Although to be honest the fairly shiny production does them no favours whatsoever.
The whole thing is slightly cheesy as well, with the massively clichéd satanic artwork and numerous references to Satan in the lyrics, but hey, it comes with the territory.
For me they’re just lacking that intensity at times that would elevate them to that next level. One quick listen to Necrophobic or God Dethroned and the distinction is even more evident. Although just to prove me wrong, final track ’Reaper In Black’ jumps out and practically rips my face off with sickening ease. At the end of the day there are, thankfully, just as many strong moments on this EP that do their very best to devour the weaker parts and allow me to enjoy In Aeternum for what they are. Solid enough, but nothing spectacular. I’ll be keeping my eye on them, that’s for sure. Besides, how many bands can claim they were nearly sued by Mel Gibson?
Listen: www.myspace.com/foreverblasphemy
Tracklist:
1. Curse of Devastation
2. Consume
3. New World Filth
4. Reaper In Black 2006
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