Behemoth
Opvs Contra Natvram
(Nuclear Blast)
It’s incredible and remarkable to think that Behemoth have been reigning, blaspheming and raising hell for over three decades. Nergal and his cohorts are polished pioneers of their developed sound, able to intrinsically and exquisitely mesh their opus music with scrupulous and vivid thought provoking artistic visuals. This is album number twelve and again the band have successfully carved out their own niche sound within ten tracks. The opening track ‘Post God Nirvana’ sets the scene for the next 43 minutes and 15 seconds with Nergal bellowing out a call to all before sinister chanting ensues. ‘The Deathless Sun’ is thunderous and ostentatious with incredible guitar work and booming drums. Live I would imagine this song to be a favourite set against much pyro. ‘Ov My Herculean Exile’ is the chance for Behemoth to gleam with its sculptured theatrical soundscape complete with Nergal’s undeniable sinister raspy vocals that echo with absolute conviction. I’m living for the monumental bass on this too. “I bled for you, now you bleed for me!” There are certainly no weak or filler songs on this offering and once again they provide the soundtrack but it’s you the listener who must undertake the solitary musical journey and discover your own path which will unquestionably be different for everyone. Absolutely exceptional!
Review By Nickie Hobbs