Belphegor “Blood Magick Necromance” review (by Kate Wilcox)

Nuclear Blast Records

Released: 2/8/11

Reviewed: 3/13/11

Reviewed By: Kate Wilcox

 

Belphegor fans have been waiting with baited breath for the band’s new release, “Blood Magick Necromance” even though it’s only been a little over a year and a half since their previous release, “Walpurgis Rites”.  Now that’s here I can honestly say that people will not be disappointed by this intense and monstrous black metal album. Belphegor has managed to take black metal and death metal and combine them together into a melodic yet destructive beast.

“In Blood-Devour This Sanctify” rips open with furious blastbeats, incredible speed picking that characterizes Belphegor’s classic guitar riffs and Helmuth’s low growls and high shrieks presented solidly in traditional black metal deliverance. “Rise to Fall and Fall to Rise” has more of an emphasized ambiance that is along the lines of Dimmu Borgir layered with symphonic overtones but still remains intensely sinister. The self-titled track shows some more traditional death metal influence that’s close to Morbid Angel before morphing back to black metal. One of the weaker tracks, if you can call it that, “Discipline Through Punishment” slows down to more of a somber pace that drags on just a little too long for my taste. “Possessed Burning Eyes 1997” is an amazingly crafted black metal track that convinced me that I will be listening to this album for a good long while.

Whether you’re focusing on the black or death metal aspect of Belphegor’s sound you cannot deny that this is an extremely well done album that offers a variety both sides of the spectrum can appreciate. From the musicianship to the writing, “Blood Magick Necromance” flows solidly and with a fury that surpasses others in the same genre. But you don’t have to take my word for it pick up a copy and check it out for yourself!!