Review - Project: Ultimate Satan - The Opus Satanas
Project: Ultimate Satan - The Opus Satanas
Eschatonic Records
Project: Ultimate Satan hail from Canberra, in the land of Oz. And quite annoyingly, this is almost an amazing album.
Ok, this is a Symphonic Death Metal album, but a lot of the music would fit in very nicely with a few of the European Symphonic Black Metal bands of the 90s, especially a particular Norwegian band (with an Icelandic band name).
A lot of the chanting styles, again fit in nicely with Black Metal, but you’d expect that considering that’s what the band name and album title scream at you. I guess the biggest difference are the vocals. The male vocals are leaning more towards a Death Metal style and the female vocals are more Occult/Death Doom and even a bit of 60s Psychedelia, a la Grace Slick.
Now, it’s when the various vocal styles collide, that I have a slight problem with this album. Generally, the album is afforded an excellent clear sound, courtesy of band member, JDecay, who provides Guitars, Orchestration and Backing Vocals. It doesn’t happen all the time, but here and there, the vocals dominate the mix and the music levels are forced into the background.
I love the whole concept/feel of this album and it’s a mix of a variety of styles that I really like. The lack of consistency in the levels, although not a deal breaker, are an annoyance.
But this a self produced debut album, so I will cut the band a lot of slack. Especially as there’s an awful lot to like here. It’s a nice twist on a well-known blueprint. And one that sounds very fresh, despite the retro vibes I’ve mentioned
On the next album though, I’d like/expect a bigger sound with more consistent levels… and hey guys, cut back on the samples/spoken word interludes… just a little.
Pick this up for $15AUD, which is about £7.50 UK, $10 USA
https://projectultimatesatan.bandcamp.com/album/the-opus-satanas
At the very least, check the album out, as you might be pleasantly surprised at what’s on offer.
https://www.facebook.com/projectultimatesatan
