Review Summary: Thy Darkened Shade appease Hephaestus with a wonderful debut
Roaring onto the black metal scene with unapologetic delectation, Thy Darkened Shade unveil "Eternvs Mos, Nex Ritvs", a delightfully staunch offering of dark magic treats. Where the following albums would take a cleaner, more progressive direction, this debut is a beloved homage to the band's influences. "Deceased Ambience" kicks us off with a pummeling introduction of thrashy gallops and snaking melodies, and serves as a brilliant thesis for the treble-driven texture of the record. Although familiar territory for genre enthusiasts, "Eternvs Mos, Nex Ritvs" reminds us that traditionalism is beautiful when done properly, and there's no substitution for integrity. Furthermore, this work is not only an unfettered artistic vision, but a viable introduction for curious newcomers.
While admittedly approaching this record through a seasoned lens, it's safe to say there's plenty to enjoy here regardless of genre familiarity. The galloped grooving hammers of "The Clandestine Insight of Immortality", the rocking swing of "Narrow Fields of Life", and the slow hypnotism of "To Suffer the Perpetual Curses" transcend musical boundaries with exemplary prowess. Every riff, drum fill, vocal pattern and bassline is executed with the utmost precision and calculated impurity. The production is rough, yet not enough to make the parts indecipherable. The cymbal work on "Inferior Deathplan" is clearly infectious, the chords of "Reconstruction of Soul and Matter" are a delicate structure, and the bass accents of "For Sinister Might" create a throbbing intensity - all of which, funnily enough, retain the same unnerving degradation.
From start to finish, "Eternvs Mos, Nex Ritvs" delivers many sonic pleasantries that'll appease listeners well beyond the black metal realm. Although not as grandiose and proggy, this record remains as a triumph of fierce songwriting, effective hooks and amicable commendations of the band's predecessors. Do yourselves a favor and give this one a spin!
