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Chaining the Katechon. - 90%
Deathspell Omega know how to compose lengthy tracks. And not just the same riff for 10 minutes type of track. In Chaining the Katechon however the band exceeded every expectation by crafting a 22 minute song that constantly shifts and changes. Their style here is based on black metal but there many diverse influences such as punk and post rock. When the song kicks in (and that happens immediately) a mid paced riff captivates the listener. It doesn't long though, for the track to shift into a more slow yet dynamic form which fits the flow perfectly. Before you even get to notice you will be again thrown into the swirling riffage of Hasjarl while Khaos delivers some of his best riffs ever.
Chaining the Katechon has, in my opinion the best production that Deathspell ever achieved and it can only be rivaled by Drought. The guitars and the bass almost merge with each other. The drums are relentless yet extremely detailed, occasionally using some double kick drums and crash cymbals. As for Mikko's vocals this is the first time that he gets to use a wide range of styles including some clean vocals (!) in the ending of the song. Speaking of the song's ending, it features one of the best slow riffs that I have ever heard. However there is one flaw that keeps me back from giving this a higher rate. The song is constantly on its peak but there are much more things going on in the second half rather than the first one. Thus the song isn't exactly balanced.
That is not enough to prevent from enjoying to the (almost) full. This song is exquisite and it is the best of all the excessive tracks of Deathspell. I never say no to one more listen if I have the time. Chaining the Katechon feels like the perfect bridge between Fas-... and Paracletus. Also it was one of the first times that Deathspell dared to walk so far away from their roots. It would be their least black metal work if Drought didn't exist. But why should anyone care about a fact like that? The song is amazing and a well deserved triumph among Deathspell's other mini albums. At least give this a try and you won't regret it.
Favorite tracks: Well... There is absolutely no point in this you know...
90/100.
