Kult ov Azazel (formerly known as Azazel) already made some waves in the American black metal underground (they did a split CD with Krieg among other things) and recently released this debut album. KoA's imagery and lyrical canvas are firmly entrenched in the black metal realm. Musically, however, they bring out pure death metal intensity within the black metal framework, which is not so surprising because unlike its European cousin, American black metal has a much closer relationship with death metal. Moreover, if your band hails from South Florida of all places, I guess it is hard to avoid a strong death metal edge in your music. The production, courtesy of Malevolent Creation's Phil Fasciana, is clear and loud, and the session drummer probably had much more experience playing death than black metal. The music is unrelentingly fast and blasting Marduk/Dark Funeral-type onslaught that is dominated by flawless, punishing drum work and overwhelming vocal delivery, which do not leave that much room for variety and atmosphere. Obviously, not everyone will like what this band is doing. If black metal is all about atmosphere to you, or if you are a fan of raw, necro production, then this release won't do you much good. But if albums like "Panzer Division Marduk" are your ultimate listening pleasure, then "Triumph of Fire" will be your huge cup of tea.

© 2001 boris