Hailing from Italy, the black metal band Darkend made a huge step forward in their career and they seem more determined than ever to put their name in the elite lists of the worldwide black metal scene. But let’s be clear with something i keep reading about them and i strongly disagree. Most sites and evern their label Non Serviam Records, label them as a symphonic black metal band. The way i see it, the use of keyboards doesn’t always mean symphonic. Keyboards in this release help the band to build a unique atmosphere. But that’s just my opinion. Anyway.
“The Canticle Of Shadows” consists of 7 unholy songs with a very personal and unique atmosphere, an elitistic view of black metal. The description the band gives to their music in the facebook page is extreme ritual metal and i couldn’t find a better way to descibe it. Forget all the cliches of black metal, forget scandinavian bands, Darkend manage to combine intensity, darkness and extreme music with a very unique way.
There are four great guest musicians in this album, Attila Csihar (MAYHEM), Niklas Kvarforth (Shining), Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ) and Labes C. Necrothytus (Abysmal Grief) and their reputation proves that this album is special. Otherwise i don’t think they would put their names on this release. And Darkend seem to have been inspired by all these 4 bands and blend these influences with their own style with a magnificent result.
All fans of black metal, and not only, should check out “The Canticle Of Shadows”, i am sure every listening will be a dark pleasure. From now on there are certain and high requirements from Darkend and they just have to keep their music in these high standards or even higher!
FOR RECKONING HOUR / METAL REVOLT
OKUMA
PUBLICATION DATE: 23 MARCH 2016
