Following a change in name, the now rebranded NARZISSUS from Austria is back with a 2nd EP of Black Metal torment. Out via Death Kvlt Productions on December 1st.
Glistening guitars and crashing cymbals come to life with a melancholic and melodic display of emotive and fearsome Black Metal in the Finnish vein with piercing instrumentals and vocals delivered by a raw, icy conjuration of darkness. The vocals naturally add a very Germanic touch to the music, accentuating the ferocity amidst some utterly fantastic lead guitar work. It is clear the musician behind this project is very skilful in their craft. The ambient and eerie side of the atmospherics are powerful while there is a constant drive that gives the onslaught a very urgent and cathartic feel. The blend of aggressive and sombre moods is well executed with melodious prowess and plentiful groove that is mesmerising and vicious in equal measure. This is some really magnificent Black Metal.
Blistering onwards, the diverse range of chilling extremity takes a pathway into emotional and darkened realms with a tasteful progression through the riffs and drum patterns while the shrill vocals maintain a consistent fury and anguish. While the tonality may be reminiscent of Finnish Black Metal, there is also so remnants of similarity to the Norwegian, Canadian and German bands which gives Narzissus a unique approach which still has elements of familiarity from bands such as Windir, Nargaroth, Taake and Forteresse. There is definitely a second wave feeling to this with both the musicianship and the production while the melodic work is transcendent beyond this rather tight niche. Narzissus certainly deserves the attention of the Black Metal underground.
A gorgeous and mightily driven EP with plentiful nuance and barbarity swathed in stunning guitar work, booming drums and ritualistic vocals. While only just under 20 minutes, there is no shortage of majestic grandiosity showcased here. This definitely conveys a raw, brooding and soaring example of Black Metal finesse that is not to be missed. -8/10
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