Encomium's brand of bombastic black metal is most impressive. Raven's iron-shod (solid and heavy, but not slow!) rhythm guitars and vicious vocals and Rhigon's "teetering on the brink of chaos" yet always clean and classy lead melodies do not make this the most eerie or harsh release ever, but hopefully these aren't the only criteria fans seek. The lyrics on this tape are also exceptional - very imaginative and refreshing. The title track is about driving nails into the coffin of someone's guilt-ridden past and embracing sin. To find a band that has outstanding song-writing, excellent playing ability and conviction is supremely satisfying.

© 2003 j. mcintyre