One of the most famous voices in the Greek metal scene (along with Rotting Christ, Necromantia, and Septic Flesh), Varathron is continuing their career with a new EP set to release on October 23rd. Containing both new songwriting and live recordings of previous works, it should serve well as a benchmark of the band’s current approach and a future full length. Agonia Records wrote the following press statement:
New seven-track EP from Greek black metal legends, VARATHRON. “The Confessional Of The Black Penitents” precedes the release of the band’s sixth full-length album and features three new exclusive songs along with four classic tracks recorded live in 2015. All together almost 45 minutes running time.
Placed amongst the forefathers of Hellenic black metal scene, VARATHRON has spawned albums that are celebrated as the cornerstones of Greek metal. Alongside Necromantia and Rotting Christ, with whom the group shared members, VARATHRON’s fascination towards early style remains unique and forthright. Since their inception back in 1988, the band’s trademark are mid-paced riffs that have a classic, old-school feel strengthened by a progressive view as well as epic atmospheres that only few can match.
Even though CROWSREIGN and STYGIAN FORCES got lukewarm receptions upon release, I still enjoyed them and will probably buy this one and the following LP. They have become a beer party band for me…so friends of mine who like any heavier genre, mainstream, underground or otherwise, can enjoy it without much fuss. Not the best of endorsements, but serves its purpose admirably.
But… that’s the cover of a Gorement compilation…
Looks like they both licensed the same art.
http://www.centurymedia.com/artist.aspx?IdArtist=593
Was it on sale?
How do you you guys feel about other Greek black metal bands like:
Order of the Ebon Hand
Agatus
Athos
Deviser
In 20 years, all that will be remembered from the Greek black metal scene are the first two Varathron albums.
I don’t think you give Necromantia enough credit. Scarlet Evil Witching Black is an excellent album.
Rotting Christ’s Thy Mighty Contract, it’s in the DLA after all.
People will be listening to Thy Mighty Contract way after everyone stops caring about post-His Majesty at the Swamp Varathron.
Agreed.
I’m afraid nothing will be forgotten ever again thanks to the internet. You can find a corner of the web that hosts just about any obscure interest, whether it’s Disney slashfic or crappy underground metal demo bands from the early 90s.
Hey Gabe ISVIND released an album a few weeks ago, in case there’s another Sadistic Metal Review post coming soon…
It’s all dad rock now.