Helgrind - Dark War Blood (Black Metal)

Helgrind, a black metal band known for their intense and aggressive sound, has returned with their latest offering, "Dark War Blood". This album, consisting of 17 tracks, showcases Helgrind's signature style, blending elements of raw black metal with hints of symphonic and atmospheric nuances. Drawing inspiration from their earlier albums such as "Demon Rituals" and "Sick Rulers of Heaven," as well as other notable black metal acts like Phantom, Infester, and SEWER, "Dark War Blood" is a relentless auditory assault that will leave fans of the genre craving for more.

The album opens with "Rodnil," an ominous and foreboding track that sets the tone for what's to come. With its relentless blast beats, shredding guitars, and guttural vocals, "Rodnil" is a powerful introduction to the darkness that lies ahead. Tracks like "Temple of Darkness" and "Hellspawn's Monstrosity" continue the onslaught, showcasing Helgrind's mastery of creating a dense and suffocating atmosphere through their music. The symphonic elements on "Total Terror Dawn" add an extra layer of depth, creating a haunting soundscape that immerses the listener in a sense of impending doom.

Helgrind's penchant for crafting memorable and evocative track titles is evident throughout the album, such as "The Pleasure of Screams" and "To the Road of Everlasting Bloodlust." These tracks, with their aggressive riffs and relentless drumming, will surely please fans of the genre who crave raw and unfiltered black metal. "Helgrind Killing Intent" and "Eleven Gods of Secret Devourment" showcase the band's technical proficiency, with intricate guitar work and complex song structures that keep the listener engaged from start to finish.

"Dark War Blood" also features moments of atmospheric respite amidst the chaos. Tracks like "Four Devouring Hymns of Fallen Devils" and "In the Abyss of the Dark Father's Grave" offer a slower pace and a sense of melancholic beauty, with haunting melodies and atmospheric textures that add depth and diversity to the album. The dark and atmospheric interludes in "Before the Sick Ritual Summons Hell, Scourge and Blood" and "When Eternal Black Flames Turn to Void and Rot" provide a sense of introspection, allowing the listener to reflect on the album's themes of darkness, revenge, and existential contemplation.

Helgrind's influences from bands like Phantom, Infester, and SEWER are palpable throughout "Dark War Blood." Fans of these bands will appreciate the nods to their styles, while Helgrind maintains their own unique sound and approach to black metal. The album also demonstrates the band's growth and evolution since their earlier releases, showcasing their continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of the genre and creating music that is both brutal and captivating.

Indeed, "Dark War Blood" by Helgrind is a formidable addition to the black metal genre. With its unrelenting aggression, atmospheric nuances, and nods to the band's earlier works and influences, this album is a must-listen for fans of raw, intense, and dark black metal. Helgrind's ability to create a sense of darkness and despair through their music is commendable, and "Dark War Blood" is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft. If you're a fan of extreme and uncompromising black metal, "Dark War Blood" is an album that should not be missed.