BOOK OF BLACK EARTH

In a fashion typifying the average band's progression from one release to the next, someone that didn't know any better might assume that the more atmospheric/expansive, keyboard-effected "Horoskopus" was released after the more direct form of blackened death metal on "The Cold Testament". But BOOK OF BLACK EARTH is no average band.

"The Cold Testament" is every bit as good as "Horokopus", the major difference being that the newly unleashed feral beast kills its prey in a quicker, decisive fashion. The chill in the air persists and the dark clouds of Armageddon blot out the sunlight. It is just that "The Cold Testament" lunges is a manner more savage with layers of crunch and sharp edges that coexist with black metal minor note harmonies, Joe Axler's clattering, nuanced drum battery and TJ Cowgill's mid-range shout/growl. That new found directness pays off big time on opening track "Weight of the World", probably the most memorable track of the bunch. The ghosts continue to haunt though, as doomy/melancholy melody lines are found all over the album. Check out "Termination", parts of the cleverly titled "Research and Destroy", and a standout called "Antarctica" that has a vibe similar to the cold winds blown by NACHTMYSTIUM. Interestingly enough, it is also on "Research and Destroy" where BOOK OF BLACK EARTH gives its death a rockin' fuel injection, but not nearly as powerfully as on the raging demonic gallop of "Road Dogs from Hell", which offers a proud mantra of "Shit out of luck, don't give a fuck, this is the life we chose!" Indeed.

Certainly the Chris Common (PELICAN, THE SWORD) production and a mixing/mastering job by Dan Swanö (BLOODBATH, OPETH, NASUM) at Sweden's Unisound Studio contributed to the rip factor and, believe it or not, bleaker outlook on "The Cold Testament". But it is of course the musicians of BOOK OF BLACK EARTH who decided that going for the jugular was the straightest line to a kill. They were right. Those hyenas you see milling about nearby are waiting for the right time to dine on any meat that may remain on the carcasses left behind by BOOK OF BLACK EARTH after a ruthless attack now known as "The Cold Testament".