Gorgon – Traditio Satanae (Osmose Productions. 2021).
For a number of years, I was sadly ignorant of Gorgon, one of the earlier Black Metal bands from France, and their latest album, Traditio Satanae, is reason enough for any others who have unfortunately been ignorant of the band to explore their material. The album begins with a vicious assault on the senses, the relentless Blood of Sorcerer, which delivers pounding drumming at breakneck speed, merciless icy riffs, and flesh-ripping vocals. After a thorough thrashing, there is little respite before the equally intense Death Was Here comes roaring forth. The following song, Entrancing Cemetery, is a somewhat more atmospheric affair, with fantastic use of keyboards in the background, helping to aid in the creation of the ethereal atmosphere that permeates the song. It is a somewhat slower affair, being more mid-paced, with hypnotic riffs that conjure up a mysterious feeling, as if one is coming face-to-face with the unfathomable nature of infinity. The music in general is more reminiscent of Northern European Black Metal bands, with elements that will remind one of Dissection, with a fantastic use of entrancing melodies that weave together to form mental vistas of the majestic yet terrifying night sky and the infinite void beyond. The production is of the highest quality. As mentioned earlier, there is a masterful use of keyboards, which are positioned in the mix in such a way that they assist with the mood without overpowering everything else. Meanwhile, the guitars, whilst being distorted and raw, are perfectly audible so that even at the high intensity of some of the songs, nothing becomes blurred or lost. Likewise, the drums are powerful and crushing without drowning out anything else. This excellent production helps to bring the music to life and helps with the sense of majesty that is weaved into the album Traditio Satanae, especially on the more epic songs, such as the outstanding The Long Quest. Overall, this is a good album. It may not be completely unique or novel, but it is high quality Black Metal that will get you hooked from your first listen and that will grow further on you with repeated listens. Either way, it is well worth getting.
7.25/10.
SADISTIC SCREAMS 