Label: Independent
Genre: Black/Death Metal
Length: 46:05
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When I discovered Abyssus, the second album from Black Moon Empire, I didn't really know what to expect, apart from German death metal (according to Metal Archive) that seems to move between tradition and modernity. As I plunged into the album, I was immediately drawn in by its dark, technical and black metal-influenced atmosphere (Or maybe I listen to a lot of Black Metal and some dark atmosphere makes me see it everywhere). Whatever, after the first listen, all I wanted to do was go back and immerse myself further in this fascinating realm.
From the very first notes of the introduction In Abyssum Irent, I found myself into an ominous atmosphere that sets the tone: Abyssus are not here for light-heartedness. The songwriting on this album is a perfectly orchestrated storm, oscillating between frantic rhythms and calmer moments. Tracks like Die Erkenntnis and Vikings Curse illustrate this duality, with controlled transitions between raw and melodic passages. The guitar playing, in particular, stands out with its ability to create an malvolent atmosphere, as on Schatten, which explores almost black metal sounds. This track is a masterpiece of nuance and controlled brutality, with precise blast beats and a memorable solo.
One of the things that really stood out for me on Abyssus was the vocals. Relentlessly powerful, it oscillates between deep growls, hellish screams and even higher, more visceral moments. This varied range adds an incredible dynamic to the tracks, as on Predator, where rage mingles with a certain visceral fragility. On Feuer frei, the vocal performance is simply inexhaustible (the vocals reach their peak on this track) pouring out a raw energy that perfectly matches the song's intense rhythm.
If I had to pick out two tracks that stand out from the rest, they would undoubtedly be Schatten and Caleideadscope. The first, with its black metal influences (again), its progression, rhythmic variations and solo set in the middle of a maelstrom of blast beats. As for Caleideadscope, it stands out through its technical complexity and elaborate structure (nuanced). Every second of this track is thought through, every nuance adding a new dimension to the album. To me, these two tracks represent the very essence of Abyssus.
In the end, Abyssus is much more than a death metal album (if I had to categorise the album I'd say Blackened Technical Death Metal). With its modern production, black metal and technical influences, it stands out as a landmark work. Extreme metal worshippers (like me) will find plenty to enjoy here. For my part, I can only recommend it.