Catastrophe Altar

Behold yet another precious jewel from the realms of São Paulo based Spell Forest, as they unveil their opus "Catastrophe Altar". Following the commendable "Verum" and the ambient exploration of "Inclusus Opacity", the horde resurges with relentless fury, leaving an indelible mark in its wake.

The introduction of their new percussion beast Pestiferat XIII elevates Spell Forest to unseen levels of speed (considering their back catalogue), unleashing a torrent of insane blastbeats that becomes the beating heart of the album. Lord Mephyr, the visionary force behind Spell Forest, harnesses this newfound intensity to forge what stands as the band's most brutal offering to date. Tracks like "Salutare" and "Rebellionis" epitomize this brutal assault, embodying pure, unbridled speed and chaos from the first note to the last. A reminiscent nod to the chaotic style found in Frozen Shadows' "Hantises" adds an intriguing layer to the ferocity, establishing a sonic kinship with a venerable predecessor.

Yet, true to their roots, Spell Forest interlaces the ferocity with melodic and atmospheric compositions. Employing synthesizers and acoustic guitars, tracks like "Lunae" and the titular "Catastrophe Altar" showcase the band's ability to create an ethereal ambiance. The latter even introduces clean vocals in the background, adding a haunting dimension to the overall experience. Following the raw intensity of "Verum", "Catastrophe Altar" marks a return to the stylistic essence observed in the acclaimed "Lucifer Rex" and "Lucifer Rex II - Celebrare a Furvum Luna in Martis". While not reaching the epic proportions of its predecessors, the album navigates the familiar terrain with finesse, bridging the gap between raw aggression and atmospheric allure.

In contrast to singling out a standout track, "Catastrophe Altar" captivates with its overall balance. The album unfolds as a cohesive sonic journey, seamlessly pleasing the black metal fanatic in its entirety. This cohesion highlights the meticulous craftsmanship woven into every track, ensuring a captivating experience from start to finish.

For enthusiasts of traditional black metal enriched with melodic and atmospheric nuances, "Catastrophe Altar" beckons as an essential addition to your auditory collection. Spell Forest once again proves their prowess in navigating the intricate tapestry of black metal, delivering an album that resonates with both ferocity and haunting beauty.