Aristarchos – Martyr of Star and Fire
Vendetta Records
05/04/24
Running Time: 32:45
Review by Oli Gonzalez
8/10
Aristarchos. Blackened atmospheric metal from Scotland. Being shrouded in mystery and making a deliberate attempt to retain anonymity, that’s about as in depth as I can go into the band’s bio! However, I can tell you that this “Matyr Of Star And Fire” is now the band’s second release.
My first thoughts were that “Matyr Of Star and Fire” is a brave attempt at Atmospheric Black Metal. But nothing more. I’d take that one step further and say this is a little underwhelming. When I listen to this style, I want to feel something, some kind of atmosphere but I’m not getting this vibe sadly. Also, sadly the production quality feels at least 10 years behind, like it was recorded in somebody’s basement. Will things get better?
‘Orb – Shadow Memories of the Enlived Amid the Deathless Aether ‘ opens in a calmer more ambient style and I’m starting to sense that Atmospheric Black Metal quality now. In the process, they’re providing respite from the intensity of the previous song, allowing your senses to rest. Before they up the ante and increase the intensity tenfold. Now I’m definitely feeling something. The muscles in my face tighten, my head begins to swing back and forth, the volume increases. This is getting much better! There’s a variety of vocal patterns and styles too, ranging from more traditional KVLT scream, guttural growls, and the Batushka-eqsue chants I’ve been addicted to since laying ears upon them. Impressive.
‘Oath – Dispersal of the Spectral Awning in Perpetual Flame’ takes this Batushka style approach further with an attack that is slower, groovier, and straight up bludgeoning from the onset. You can definitely sense that more doomy vibe, especially swith the chanted vocals with drone effects , making an excellent juxtaposition to the more primitive growls. I’m getting excited, I’m starting to become invested. Then sadly it’s over after only a few minutes. Damn! How clever! Because now I’m hooked and want more. Straight into the final song, ‘Adornment – Endless Syzygies of the Constant Immaterial’. This is another opening that is calm, but you can sense tension is building. Like a catapult being stretched, it then snaps and smashes you in the face with a wall of Blackened Metal intensity! This is excellent pacing and shifting in dynamics, much in the style of atmospheric metal giants Amenra. I’ve been transported to an inter galactic temple, a cosmic void, away from this festering hell hole of day-to-day life. And I love it. This is a solid finish and one I listened to multiple times. Then it’s over!
At just over 30 minutes, there’s enough to tell you who they are and leave you wanting more without inducing listener fatigue. The metaphorical sweet spot really. I guess this goes to show that you should be patient with new artists and give things a chance to develop. Still, I stand by my early thoughts on the lower production values which sadly reduce the overall quality of the album.
TRACKLISTING
01. Atrium – Martyr of Star and Fire
02. Orb – Shadow Memories of the Enlived Amid the Deathless Aether
03. Oath – Dispersal of the Spectral Awning in Perpetual Flame
04. Adornment – Endless Syzygies of the Constant Immaterial
LINE-UP
Unknown
LINKS
Disclaimer: This review is solely the property of Oli Gonzalez and Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.