I've recently aquired a pre-release copy of the new Dimmu Borgir album "In Sorte Diaboli" via one of the bandmembers. Can't say that I'm a die-hard fan of everything that this band has ever done, but I've got to admit - this album has impressed me. From the sounds of it, the songs have been written in a different manner this time. Nine tracks. The keys are supporting the guitar lines instead of the other way around as on the previous release. The production is flawless, everything stands out very clear in the mix. Guitar riffs have become more focused, definitely more Galder-esque. Real cool stuff going on between the two guitars. Not just harmonies, but totally separate riffs melted together. And Hellhammer's drumming is actually very nicely done throughout the entire thing. His blasts are tight and focused, nice fills and cymbal work. Certainly his best to date. Blows away anything that Barker ever did with this band. The highlights of the album, imo, are:
#3 - "The Conspiracy Unfolds" - good vocal arrangement, riffing, some real cool syncopated cymbal work.
#8 - "The Invaluable Darkness" - fuckin riff city! And I used to think Silenoz sucked!
#9 - "The Foreshadowing Furnace" - again, good vocal arrangement. Shagrath is definitely showing a lot of maturity as a lyricist and his control is incredible, all poserdom aside.
Bottom Line: Good shit. If you're a determined Dimmu hater, then you probably will stay one. If you're open to give it a shot, you'll probably be impressed enough to give them a chance. If you're a diehard fan - get ready.
#3 - "The Conspiracy Unfolds" - good vocal arrangement, riffing, some real cool syncopated cymbal work.
#8 - "The Invaluable Darkness" - fuckin riff city! And I used to think Silenoz sucked!
#9 - "The Foreshadowing Furnace" - again, good vocal arrangement. Shagrath is definitely showing a lot of maturity as a lyricist and his control is incredible, all poserdom aside.
Bottom Line: Good shit. If you're a determined Dimmu hater, then you probably will stay one. If you're open to give it a shot, you'll probably be impressed enough to give them a chance. If you're a diehard fan - get ready.
I liked the new video better than Progenies.