DROUGHT

Deathspell Omega, starting in the year 1998, produced very Darkthrone like releases. From their splits with Mutiliation, and Moonblood; they were simpley known as any other black metal act. But one thing did stand out (compared to any other French act), and that was their lyrics. Yes, they did deal with satanism, but it had some sort of sophistication to it. Fast forward to 2004 though, they began experimenting with the same theme (satanism), but it had a much more philosophical/nihilistic point of view (much like the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche) than ever before. These releases from then on were part of a "trilogy" in regards to their full lengths (their EP's dealt with the same theme. Their last release in their series of man, god, and satan, and the relationship of the three was titled Paracletus, and it was a great balance of Si, and their mini albums (without the ridiculous interludes like we heard on Fas). It was a much cleaner sounding release, and with that, it made every instrument more audible (which is something you need in regards to how vicious/technical this band can get). Now, fast track to two years later, and we have their latest Ep, "Drought". Clocking in at just over twenty minutes, we have something that is short, but sweet. It essentially picks up where Paracletus left off, and develops/matures their sound even further than before. There's some melody to it, but just enough to where you can make out what's going on (instead of the low quality in releases like Fas..which pales in comparison to this). In the opener "Swaloe Vision" it starts out very calmly-with acoustic guitars, and a creepy humming in the background-it sets the mood for what's about to come. It further develops into more acoustic guitar pieces, and then the drums kick in. This further progresses into more aggressive guitar work, and drum patterns (but still beautiful). It keeps building up until the storm hits you. The next track, Fiery Serpents (clocking in at 4:15) is their most punk sounding song to date. With blast beats surrounding you, and a beautiful riff (it's almost a metaphor for new life), it pummels you. But you want more at the same time. With Mikko's trademark growl/rasp it thrusts you into the fire. Mikko gets more deranged as the song proceeds, and almost sounds like he wants to tear the studio apart at one point. The next track, Scorpions and Drought adds some variation to the chaos, but it's enough to keep you thinking what's going to happen next. The drum work, and vocal approach in this song is almost too much at some point, but still manages to keep it cool with the slight melody in the background. Sand is one of the melodic tracks (probably their most melodic track they have released), but still manages to destroy you. With it's warm, yet crushing guitar tone, and different vocal styles from Aspa, it manages to create a contrast to the previous track. And it does it so well. Abrassive Swirling Mirk was one of the first tracks released before the album hit the market, and it still doesn't disappoint, and lives up to the name. With it's insane drum fills (which are inhuman), and Mikko's terrorizing voice it's almost as if the apocalypse is upon you. Ending with an epic semi guitar solo it sets the mood for the last, and most memorable song on the album, The Crackled Book of Life. This final track has the most variation on any Deathspell track than anything they have previously done. With it's catchy guitar riff, choral compositions, and absolutely devastating atmosphere, it pummels you to the ground. Absolutely stunning conclusion. Drought is a fitting epilogue to what they have done over the years with their astonishing discography. This album reenforces why they're the leaders of experimental/orthodox black metal. No other band has achieved what they have done in terns of musicianship, lyrical themes, and mystery surrounding them. Truly a masterpiece.