Bestemmia Aeternalis is a black/death metal band from Texas, USA. Formed in 1999, the band's themes include anti-Christianity and Satanism. After releasing two EPs, Veil of Sins in 2001 and Embracing Hell in 2005, Bestemmia Aeternalis had to wait until 2024 to finally unveil their debut album, Forbearance In Opposition, available in streaming and CD format.
The album consists of eight tracks totalling 28 minutes and 46 seconds. From the opening track, Descending Into Evil, the listener is plunged into an oppressive, demonic atmosphere, a mood that persists throughout the album. The songwriting is bestial, driven by razor-sharp guitars, percussive drums and possessed vocals. The raw production further accentuates the aggression of the whole. Although the album is rooted in violent black/death metal, some thrash metal influences can be heard. Despite the omnipresent brutality, melodies emerge, notably on Beyond Death's Door from 0:28 onwards, which at times reminded me of the melodies on Death's Symbolic and Individual Thought Patterns albums.
There are some stand-out passages that deserve special mention: the change in dynamics at 1:50 on Inverted Cross, followed by a demonic vocal performance at 3:41, which is inspired by primitive black metal. The furious acceleration of the drums on Witchcraft Possessions and the intensity of the vocals make it a highlight of the album. On Consecrated Dirt, the ominous melodic section at 1:09, followed by an even darker atmosphere at 1:41, reinforces the evil mood. Finally, the album's conclusion with Arriving At His Throne is masterful: a misanthropic atmosphere sublimated by frightful screams that leave a lasting impression.
Among my favourites tracks, Voice Of Samael stands out for its gloomy atmosphere, effective songwriting and particularly impressive vocal performance. Witchcraft Possessions begins with a heavy ambience before turning into a frenetic rampage where vocals and drums reach their peak. Finally, Atrocity's Premonitions perfectly embodies the essence of the album, encapsulating the fury and darkness that Bestemmia Aeternalis seeks to convey.
Forbearance In Opposition is an uncompromising album, where the brutality of black/death metal is combined with subtle melodic touches and unforgettable moments of intensity. A must-have for those who worship bestiality.
