Do you like black metal? Really, really like black metal? This may not be for you. Do you not like black metal? Really, really not like black metal? Same story.

Entartung Maleficae Artes (Dunkelheit Produktionen)

Entartung takes an expansive view of the black metal sound (this expanse includes exceptionally long songs), incorporating goth, doom and a general symphonic atmosphere. Rather than the usual thready sound that is typical of black metal, Entartung embraces a lush, full canvas.

It's easy to hear the influence of My Dying Bride, Tiamat, Fear Factory and many other pioneers of different metal schools. And I use those 90s references intentionally, as the black metal style at the band's core is also straight outta 1991. It's almost as if the band liquified its influences, poured them directly into the engine and then floored the throttle.

Not an album for purists or those who can't deal with the full-on attack of black metal. Rather, this is an album for connoisseurs of loud music in general, folks who appreciate the adrenaline and aggression that comes from a wide variety of musical thought. It would be easy to write another 10,000 words on all of things going on here, but really, all that needs to be said is: To eleven, and beyond!

Jon Worley