VARIOUS ARTISTS : INVOCATIO VALDE DIABOLI EX PROFUNDUS
Astrum Argentum/Negra Nit Distribution
The sampler has long been a staple release type for labels, particularly those small enough to require extra exposure, and enthusiastic enough about their bands’ output to invest serious time, it is a rare thing for a promoter to produce, and so Astrum Argentum are to be applauded for the appearance of “Invocatio Valde Diaboli Ex Profundus”, the first compilation to showcase some of the many bands on their books. AA’s specialism, as those who have read this fortnight’s special feature will know, is in the area of ‘religious’ black metal, that awesome and often cacophonous force which, to generalise, melds teeth-clenching, often theistic Satanism with a whole lot of blasting and an often uncanny turn of ritualistic beauty.
For some of Astrum Argentum’s friends, it’s all about the onslaught. This is so for stand-out contributors Teratism, whose offering “Upon the Cusp” rages into a relentless maelstrom before balancing out into a meaner groove, sophisticated yet subtle song-writing always threatening collapse but maintaining a merciless momentum. Capitis Damnare, also, capture antagonistic rage with tight writing, working in a rousing dark melody but refusing to compromise sheer savagery at every step on “The Cult of Omega”. Kythrone take a direct route with “Churchburner”, their insistent main riff keeping up an intense, full-blooded impact, despite its repetitiveness. There is no let-up when a tempo switch finally occurs; forceful raging is replaced with a face-smashing swagger.
Pseudogod are also primitive and aggressive, with a structure that slides around just within control, but when they switch into a more mid-paced stomp, their Satanic pride shines through all the clearer, with I.S.K.H’s vocals making “The Firstborn of Abhorrence” a memorable contribution. Meanwhile, Miasma, although packing a serious punch with their filthy guitar work, allow more room for breath in their production on “Life Denial and Longing”, so that their leads can ring forth in weird, discordantly soaring way which is highly engaging. Viaticum, on “Reliquary of the Horned One” also go for a more evocative approach, with a fierce but classic black metal sound with atmospheric grandness and some very interesting growled chants.
While labels often have to include their weakest links, Astrum Argentum’s compilation benefits from excellent selection criteria, and there is nothing awful to be found here. Furthermore, the tracks are arranged well, particularly when it has come to framing the collection with the ritualistic, chanted opener by Canticae Nostica Lux Ferro, and the beautiful ambience of Dhul-Qarnayn’s closer. This selection made me eager to hear full releases by many of the artists – especially Teratism, Miasma, Pseudogod, Ysengrin, Andramalech and Angelgoat – so surely the mission of the compilation is well and truly accomplished. “Invocatio Valde Diaboli Ex Profundus” is highly recommended for taking the hard work out of seeking out the best underground bands; a whole lot of them are here.
82/100
ELLEN SIMPSON
