FAS - ITE, MALEDICTI, IN IGNEM AETERNUM

Interesting experimental Black Metal album, not something that I'd really call avant because the traditional black metal element is more prominent then the experimentation, but still, the extensive use of dissonant chords, the dark atmospheres and spooky theatricality make this stand apart from the pack.

"Fas. Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum" is a typical progressive black metal in maintaining the dark and harsh atmosphere of black metal and extending it with enhanced technicality, strong professional production and instrumental breaks where they allow the music to progress organically. The technical angle sets it apart from the more direct and minimal low-fi sound of 'true' black metal, while the experimentation and complexity is far above the more mainstream approach of symphonic black metal.

It is a very dense album, overwhelmingly intense and dark, with gruff low-end vocals only and persistently intricate playing where the guitars, drums and bass seem to clash more often then playing together. Think 'Trout Mask Replica' from Captain Beefheart done with a metal edge and a big load of reverb.

Challenging, dazzling and breath-taking. It's an album destined to evoke strong and opposite reactions, but I seem to end up somewhere in the middle. Impressed as I am it doesn't entirely click with me. The passing of years will tell.