Watain

Lawless Darkness

Season of Mist 2010

There is a reason why Watain has risen from the black abyss that is the Swedish black metal underground to grab the crown.  Their latest opus is a perfect illustration as to why they have managed to claim the throne as their own.  From the initial stages of Death's Cold Dark you will instantly recognize a band steeped in confidence and maturity.  Their riffing style is immediately recognizeable as Swedish in origin yet Watain manage to steer clear of Dissection comparisons for the most part as the music is much less melodic though still replete with abyssic atmosphere.  Malfeitor unfolds with a Dissection-ish melody that drifts towards a hypnotically circular riff.  Hints of black thrash scream like fiery lances to pierce the flesh.  Reaping Death varies its tempos and moods like a chameleon, quickly shifting moods and levels of aggression.  Deathly speed collapses into melancholy only to defiantly stab heavenward with upturned axework.  A sinister gallop grips my throat before a ravenous set of churning riffs swell like waves in a stormy ocean on Four Thrones.  The tension rapidly mounts on Total Funeral as the pace quickens and the violence rips like a chainsaw.  However a set of VON-ish of primitive riffing leaps out of the ritualistic madness only to once again give way to a more morose melodicism.  A forlorn clean guitar paints picture of nocturnal sorrow to open Waters of Ain, however the feral nature of the track quickly dominates the songs mood utilizing ferocious riffs and Erik's ghoulish vocals.  Hints of Swedish melody permeate the lead guitar to accent the song, adding depth and emotion to the track's blasphemous nature.  Watain have returned after an extensive break with an album, sharpened by time and experience into a merciless killing machine.  The album drips venom like a poisoned blade so every wound inflicted proves fatal and your soul is forced to peer into an infernal chasm of blackness and despair.