A Reflection of the Past / Where the Sun Was Never Born

This here is a fine piece of melancholic black metal, with some "martial" elements too. Both sides are pretty atmospheric with standard black metal riffage.

Although this may not be the best DTL release, it definitively stands out as some original and interesting approach, maybe reaching top 3 when we are talking about splits. I am tempted to say it was recorded trying to get close to Evil's signature style (simple, repetitive and with martial inspirations). The first two tracks got some sort of early winter depression, with epic riffs. From "Resistance to an Empty World" onward the depression turns out to be a sick misanthropic hate for everything black metal has become in the mainstream and in the new so-called "safe" underground. The speed also increases, making it feel like some sort of adrenaline rush. The last track is also a hateful homage to both Elizabeth Bathory and the essence of second wave black metal. Overall, great riffs, great vocals but somewhat poor drumming. In fact, I must say that the drumming in this recording feels sloppy and improvised. If this is not a problem to you, then we can agree that's a killer split.

Flipping the tape, I would say this is the best Evil release ever. The band's extensive catalog does have some very weak releases as well as some hidden gems, this is the greatest of them. Warlord riffs are at the peak of bizarre hate in this recording, just listen to "Mourning Winter" then you will understand what I am talking about. Wargun drumming style is also much less chaotic, bringing a sense of methodical insanity. If you are familiar with Wargun's other bands you will see that here he really created a new style for himself, which fits perfectly with Warlord's simple riffage. Sometimes, the drums and guitar get of of sync, but that's a characteristic Evil developed since the first demos, and that I believe is a conscious artistic approach.

Highlights: "A Reflection of the Past", "Blood for the Countess", "Hammerstorm in Hyperborean Lands", "Mourning Winter" and "Hopeless".