Root

Heritage of Satan

Agonia Records 2011

The Czech Republic's godfathers of black metal Root return for their 9th studio album.  Very few bands can lay claim to be truly unique, and thankfully for the underground, Root is one such entity.  Root hasn't been truly black metal in quite some time, however the same core philosophy and darkness has flowed through each of their albums.  For me, Root's modern albums escape musical classification, though I have heard "dark metal" used when describing their music and I guess that fits.  Heritage of Satan begins with an overly long intro that is minimal piano and slow, deliberate spoken words from Big Boss.  And then the metal riffs kick in on In Nomine Sathanas.  Thick, heavy riffs propel the track forward in a forceful manner.  The song is really confident, as evidenced by the classy guitar solo that smoothly interjects itself within the muscular folds of the composition.  Then Legacy Of Ancestors announces its presence with a more raucous rock opening section.  A strange chugging guitar and bouncy beat are immediately crushed underneath the bulldozer riffs of Revenge of Hell only to resurface again and again.  The strange, silent vocal sections and tepid chorus make this song a lowpoint of the album for me.  The song can't even be saved by the beautiful acoustic guitar or the excellent guitar solos.  The same cannot be said for Darksome Prophet which hurtles out of the speakers at full speed.  Total black metal riffs and melodies flow like a river and bombastic vocals bellow across the song.  The black metal savagery skips a song and then picks right back up on Son of Satan.  The vocals are a little more operatic in their approach instilling the song with a demented edge.  Root return with yet another album of strength and confidence.  Heritage of Satan constantly morphs its styles, tempos, and vocal techniques.  Root are individuals in an underground full of sheep and you would do well do digest their entire catalogue of work.  Heritage of Satan is no exception.