Absu have been unleashing a concentrated dose of extreme metal since 1991, death metal in their early days, but found themselves more comfortable in black metal given time. Absu is the Texan black metallers first full length album in 8 years (since 2001’s Tara). The self titled record surely represents a clean slate, a new beginning for the band. Previous lyrical themes included Irish and Celtic Mythology, but now focus on topics like Sumerian occultism.
First track “Between The Absu Of Eridu & Erech” illustrates this as it sways to the side of “black ‘n’ roll” with its somewhat cavorting riffs and unyielding drumming. This, with Proscriptor’s harsh vocals and shifts into vicious and unforgiving blackened bursts create the very bludgeon many a BM fan yearns for.
“Night Fire Canonization” displays some fine and speedy fret work with unremitting and merciless drumming. One thing is certain; regardless of delves into other territories the heart of black still beats proudly.
The band isn’t afraid to dig into melody as the Absu assault continues on “Amy”. Some of the riffs are almost catchy and the solos are air guitar worthy. It may say in Chapter 84 Section 17 of the Black Metal Constitution that you can’t have that sort of thing in black metal, but god damn it, times have changed!
“Girra’s Temple” is a short blast of bile spewing black metal. Vocally Proscriptor is on fire! “Sceptre Command” trades some welcomed melody but mostly sticks out for its solo.
7/10
The Grind That Annoys 