Every so often you will come across a band with
the writing ability to engrave lengthy tracks. Even less often will you
find one that can keep you entertained for such a length of time. With Throne
Of Katarsis’ “An Eternal Dark Horizon” every track
is ten minutes or longer, two are a few seconds from ten, but mind as well
call I that. They use the change of pace wisely. Which is needed in rather
long tracks to keep it interesting. Being that this is the bands 1st full-length
album and 3rd recording overall it gets a little more impressive. Then finding
out it’s a two-person group, Grimnisse (all guitars), Vardalv (drums),
now you have something that can be really appreciated. Throne Of Katarsis
signed with Candlelight in 2006 and the birth of this Norwegian band wasn’t
far behind that back in 2003. This black mass is true Norwegian atmospheric
occult black metal. “An Eternal Dark Horizon” is dynamic with
passionate acoustic guitarwork, speedy guitars as black as a winters night,
along with a variation of black metal groove, relentless battery with nice
combos and fills, and no keyboards. At the helm are black metal vox with
changing styles - screams, growls, drone, shrieks, and majestic. These five
lengthy tunes and over fifty-five minutes will remind you of black metal
greats like Darkthrone, Immortal, Emperor, and Mayhem’s early records.
This was recorded at Black Dimension Studios (Thundra, EvigNatt), which
is owned and operated by Thundra and ex-Einherjer bassist Stein Sund. He
helped record, mix, and master “An Eternal Dark Horizon” with
Grimnisse. Grimnisse also wrote all music and lyrics. Throne Of Katarsis’
iniquitous release will grab true black metal fans by the balls.
Rating: 82
Reviewed By: Jeffrey D. Adkins |
