Consisting of two stalwarts of the European black metal scene – namely Lykormas and Vulfolaic (which other band(s) they have been in is shrouded in mystery…) – Entartung now finds itself on album number two. A quick scan of online responses to their debut reveals more than a fair amount of respect for what these two anonymous Germans have so far created, not to mention the occasional comparison to Germany’s Nagelfar (a mere coincidence?). Apparently wishing to “return to the essence of black metal” with their darkened hymns, ‘Peccata Mortalia’ certainly lives up to this aim through its combination of savagery and atmosphere.
The intro has a distinctly gothic vibe as notes on some piano/harpsichord(?) are accompanied by obscure whispers and background chanting. Following this comes black metal which tears out a bit like countrymen Desaster only more rhythmically and melodically along the lines of, say, Kampfar or indeed Nagelfar; a mix of eerie, cutting riffs, belligerent drums and tormented vocals. Just for added comparison, the harmonies, cymbal hitting and archaic chanting which transpire also remind somewhat of Belenos. Like that band, the tempo shifts here have maximum impact within their framework of solemn but victorious sounding black metal. Elsewhere, ‘Out of Darkness into Light’ sticks its claws into the listener with rueful melodic chords before oozing utter darkness. Around halfway through, the band even sees fit to make it appear as if an entirely new track has begun with enchanted strumming ushering in an impassioned, miserable end section. Even with such tangents however, the sense of motion in Entartung’s songwriting remains unaffected.
As faith is put on the scaffold, things simply become more sombre, relentless and tormenting than before. The hammering blasts, invocations and scything riffs of track four put religion categorically in its place. Bar a mid-album haunting instrumental interlude, the remainder of the album largely continues in the great black metal tradition. ‘To Conquer Immortality in the Depths’ has a hint of the Bathory about it – certainly structure and theme-wise. From rasping guitars, astral planes and speed which hits like a brick we arrive in a particularly effective maritime scene. Sounds of waves, a creaking boat and gulls truly bring to life the whole heathen/Norse concept as music slowly simmers in the background. The end part of this twelve minute track also incorporates the sorrowful narration of some ancient, further expanding on the mystery and darkness of pre-Christian Europe. Final track proper ‘The Law of the Claw’ initially goes for a bit of a ‘Seasons in the Abyss’ vibe before wafting between shades of damned, torturous black metal.
Ending as it started, with some more of that whispered narration and classicism, Entartung’s mission is complete. The essence of black metal? Check. Rousing brilliance? Equally, check. Hard-hitting, unapologetic and most certainly a ‘return’ to the good old days, ‘Peccata Mortalia’ is recommended to anyone who appreciates quality music.
(8.5/10 Jamie)
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