Cirrhus

Undeniably the crowning jewel of Oregon based CW Productions' label, Cirrhus has finally unleashed their first full length LP. I'm quite new to this label and their roster, but there a few calling cards to be had among all releases; A distinct, raw sound quality, unconventional logos and cover art, and a uniquely obscure atmosphere. Listening to A CW tape feels like taking a step back to some long forgotten rehearsal session. Very fitting, considering they've done more than one rehearsal demo (Cirrhus has two in their discography). However, it seems that they've saved their knockout punch especially for this, their first ever LP release.

Cirrhus seems to have gained a respectable cult following, with their formidable discography and live performances. Anyone who is familiar with them will find themselves knowing what to expect, while any newcomers will likely fall into addiction of the band's energetic, punky leanings. Opening this LP, is the destructive "Night Falls and Bestows Insect Fascination". This track certainly sets a standard for the entire album, complete with great, memorable riffs, lots of tempo changes, and deep, wailed vocals. I am a bit indecisive as to how exactly I would describe these vocals. They seem to operate under a formula of hoarse shout with a pinch of torture scream. That may not even be an agreeable description for everyone, but it should give you some idea of the conviction implemented, and overall unorthodox (for black metal) style.

People online have dubbed this band and their style as "Angular black metal", which seems silly to me, but understandable. They most certainly operate under a pretty strict set of musical techniques and tempos. This is bare bones black metal, but done right. Whereas some bands going for the minimal effect bore me to tears (Bone Awl comes to mind), Cirrhus never let up in the melodic riff department, and their music has much strength due to that. Sure, they use punk beats in nearly every single track, but they also have such a wide range of emotions and moods within each song. No song or moment ever sounds stale or boring. This is high energy from start to finish. It is important to note that while punky beats do dominate the majority of the record, they tend to keep songs fresh with traditional fast, blasting sections, as well as mid tempo and slower beats. Coupled with unique imagery and smart lyrics, this is a record that should satisfy even the most die hard purists of the old school style.

This record brings to mind bands like Moonblood, Odal, Grimnir, and other purveyors of the old, kvlt division of playing. It is a record that thrives on it's almost paradoxal nature; This is a style that's been done time and time again, yet sounds so fresh. This is pretty minimal and repetitive, yet melodic and changing. The combination of tried and true formula, with added personality and identity, not only places Cirrhus as leaders of the CW pack...but as true masters of their craft. To sum it up, this is a must hear for any fans of the more obscure part of the US scene, and raw black metal in general.

originally published for aliveasthedead.wordpress.com