Theudho Under The Alemannic Sun/Gorath The Blueprints For Revolution
Self released Split 2003
By Russell Garwood
Opening this all Belgian split are the darkly atmospheric pagan black metal stylings of Theudho. Heavy use of synths creates an epic feel, while the mid paced music still has a raw edge to it. The vocals are a black metal scream with some effects at times, adding a modern feel to the at times folk-influenced music. Almost buried recitations are an interesting addition, accentuating the grandiose feel present in much of the release. Keys carry the majority of the melody, and while at times the sounds can seem false, they ring of the earlier days of symphonic black. Programmed drums could do with more variation, and a more realistic sound, yet the fills are fitting, and the dynamics appropriate; for the most part the music doesnt suffer as a result. Mellow moments amongst the metal are effective, whether synth or acoustic guitar driven, and electric solos are melodic.
A sole sample at the The Trinity Of Deceit leaves you in absolutely no doubt of the religious standing of J.S., the man behind all the instrumentation. Under The Alemannic Sun is a solid release. While by no means original, some good song-writing and epic melodies make for a worthy release from a young project. Yet, in an oversaturated genre, despite the promise shown in this split, Theudho will have to show further development to be noticed.
Responsible for the second half of the split is the duo Gorath. Showing notable development from their previous demo Haunting The December Chords, their music is high quality black metal. Present are both old school leanings, reminiscent of early Satyricon, and Darkthrone, and acoustic sections that remind me of Bergtatt era Ulver in dynamic range, if not style. Filip Dupont (The Quiescent, Project 407) is responsible for all instruments - his distorted guitars tend to be mid-paced and melodic, while the acoustics are intricate and effective. Leads are catchy and memorable, a real asset to instrumental sections. There is enough of a tune to carry considerable emotion, while the bass is relatively audible (for black metal), melodious, and at times elaborate. The growls of vocalist S. Vranckx (Shadow Gate) are nothing out of the ordinary, but suited to the harsher music. The drums are programmed, yet varied. Occasional clean vocals provide medieval (to these ears) tunes, and complete a well rounded, and interesting sound.
Gorath are a talented band, with a refreshing sound. Plenty of dynamic and tempo changes, as well as good songs and memorable tunes, make this a pleasure to listen to. While slightly derivative at points, The Blueprints For Revolution has enough unusual attributes to compensate, and make for a very enjoyable release.
Official Theudho Website
Official Gorath Website
Self released Split 2003
By Russell Garwood
Opening this all Belgian split are the darkly atmospheric pagan black metal stylings of Theudho. Heavy use of synths creates an epic feel, while the mid paced music still has a raw edge to it. The vocals are a black metal scream with some effects at times, adding a modern feel to the at times folk-influenced music. Almost buried recitations are an interesting addition, accentuating the grandiose feel present in much of the release. Keys carry the majority of the melody, and while at times the sounds can seem false, they ring of the earlier days of symphonic black. Programmed drums could do with more variation, and a more realistic sound, yet the fills are fitting, and the dynamics appropriate; for the most part the music doesnt suffer as a result. Mellow moments amongst the metal are effective, whether synth or acoustic guitar driven, and electric solos are melodic.
A sole sample at the The Trinity Of Deceit leaves you in absolutely no doubt of the religious standing of J.S., the man behind all the instrumentation. Under The Alemannic Sun is a solid release. While by no means original, some good song-writing and epic melodies make for a worthy release from a young project. Yet, in an oversaturated genre, despite the promise shown in this split, Theudho will have to show further development to be noticed.
Responsible for the second half of the split is the duo Gorath. Showing notable development from their previous demo Haunting The December Chords, their music is high quality black metal. Present are both old school leanings, reminiscent of early Satyricon, and Darkthrone, and acoustic sections that remind me of Bergtatt era Ulver in dynamic range, if not style. Filip Dupont (The Quiescent, Project 407) is responsible for all instruments - his distorted guitars tend to be mid-paced and melodic, while the acoustics are intricate and effective. Leads are catchy and memorable, a real asset to instrumental sections. There is enough of a tune to carry considerable emotion, while the bass is relatively audible (for black metal), melodious, and at times elaborate. The growls of vocalist S. Vranckx (Shadow Gate) are nothing out of the ordinary, but suited to the harsher music. The drums are programmed, yet varied. Occasional clean vocals provide medieval (to these ears) tunes, and complete a well rounded, and interesting sound.
Gorath are a talented band, with a refreshing sound. Plenty of dynamic and tempo changes, as well as good songs and memorable tunes, make this a pleasure to listen to. While slightly derivative at points, The Blueprints For Revolution has enough unusual attributes to compensate, and make for a very enjoyable release.
Official Theudho Website
Official Gorath Website
