Monday, 31 August 2015

Vrolok - Soul Amputation (Album Review)

Tracklist:
1. Sanctus & Benedictus, Malefactoris   
2. Master of Terrors and Sacrilege          
3. Snake of Unholy Divinity       
4. Macabre Effigy           
5. Sanctus & Benedictus, Malefactoris II            
6. Confusion, Torment, Hatred   
7. Life Lies in Ruins                   
8. November Funeral Mass                     
9. Ghosts of Winter Mourning                
10. Oktober 26th  
11. Abstract Human Element                    
12. Pestilence Beyond the Stained Glass               
13. Devotion                     
14. Black Sacrificial Fear  
15. "...I stand to gain nothing..."   
16. Soul Amputation         
17. Hidden Between The Paths...                
18. Bele'zaghal Diplocephalus

This is the third full length album from the now defunct black metal/ambient project Vrolok based in the USA, and it was originally released in 2005. This album see’s the projects leader “D.” return once again, to, in this case, provide Vocals, Strings, Percussion, Organ and Samples. 
D. is also joined by “Lurker” of Blasphemous Crucifixion who provides the drum work on this release.

This album has some strong, interesting chaotic elements that are built manly upon its very raw and fairly unpredictable sound which is clear from the very begin of the first track. The album does lack any definable structure, and the tracks themselves are crafted in such a way as to leave the listener overwhelmed by the swirling riff work and the pounding drums.  

D.’s vocal work is also very unusual, it regularly shifts from tortured screams to clear whispers, and then shifts to Gregorian chant without missing a beat.

The album also has an intentionally rough and very experimental feel to it that increases the previously mentioned chaos, and gives it a very gloomy and dense feel that is almost impenetrable.

Overall considering the album’s length (over 70 minutes) combined with the general bizarre lack of structure this album is a solid example fairly experimental black metal that perhaps doesn’t always hit its mark, but generally keeps the listener interested and engaged with the music.   




2 comments:

  1. you know what's coming here...proper.

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    Replies
    1. The Blood Goat must find a way to stop your trolling pathetic mortal!

      Delete