What happens when you release an album but still have unheard leftovers? You release an EP! This is exactly what German duo, Mantar, chose to do when they finished recording 2016’s ‘Ode to the Flame’. The first two tracks, ‘Pest Crusade’ and ‘Age of the Vril’ are what didn’t make it onto this release. This is especially noticeable if you play them in succession of ‘Ode to the Flame’, as both songs match up to the same rough around the edges, gritty black metal feel. The title track is one that didn’t make the cut for Mantar’s debut ‘Death by Burning’ and, again, the styles connect perfectly, as this reflects the DIY/punk vibe that the band possessed around that time. Guest vocals from Bölzer’s Okoi Jones feature alongside Hanno’s for this song, but were actually recorded last year.
‘Age of the Vril’ is an instantaneous crowd pleaser, with the anthemic chant of “come on and ride, ride with me”. In fact, despite the black metal tinge to this song, it wouldn’t feel out of place on a skate video. The inclusion of Okoi Jones will doubtless be a draw for many people, however, ‘The Spell’ definitely isn’t the strongest track of the three. This is by no means an essential Mantar release, however, it will help to tide you over if you’re already craving new material following last year’s release.
(7/10 Angela Davey)
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