After eleven years now of activity, Varathron have finally found a fitting production, and through this, translated their mature music into something spectacular. Much like the depiction of Parnassus on the cover, "The Lament of Gods" inspires! Bands looking for a framework for dark music, through the usage of keyboards and pianos, look no further. Atmosphere is created here in droves - no, not background music like the keyboard dependent likes of Dimmu Borgir, but pure, melancholic BLACKNESS.

Shedding away most of the speed and Slayer-esque riffs found especially on their early work, Varathron can in every way be considered at the top of the "atmospheric" elite. The piano work on "Beyond the Grave" brings to mind true triumph! "The world through ancient eyes" (yes, Necroabyssious is still a genius at coming up with song titles) on the other hand has a uniquely dark and classical tinge to it.

Of course the bass heaviness, ROARS of Necroabyssious, and ancient sounding riffs (immediately recognizable as soon as "Fire Spell/Forbidden Lust" kicks in) are still here. The band simply sound more confident in their delivery, probably because of the exceptional production…"Crow's Reign" will rule supreme!

Cool idea: what would be better than a Necromantia vs. Varathron split 2000 C.E (FUCK that would destroy!!!!!)? The world would crumble and burn!

© 2000 brand