(Century Media)
Rating: 7.5
A farewell before the gates closed forever, Anthems From The Beyond The Grave is Dark Fortress’ last testimony. The album was recorded during the DF’s final tour in 2023 featuring two shows from Rotterdam and Bochum.
For as lengthy a career the Germans carved out in a niche black metal circle; being able to issue a live album is a symbol of determination and fortitude is an achievement considering all the trials and tribulations they have went through.
With eight albums to pull material from, the set is carefully crafted with their whole career being represented except for 2003’s Profane Genocidal Creations. Take note how the aggression and lyrical topics vary from dark fantasy, self-harm, suicidal, to abstract and earthly wonders and horrors.
Vocalist Morean shines with his wicked, rasping delivery while Asvarger and V. Santura rip on the guitars. Former Obscura members Hannes Grossmann (drums) and Linus Klausenitzer (keyboards), and Odem Arcarum’s Arioch tallies up the bass.
Despite being black metal, the recording is well-produced with much clarity. It’s professional blackness. The 90-minute set is fueled by the sinister grooves of “The Silver Gate”, the melodically intricate “Crimson Tears”, the black magick hypnotism of “Insomina”, the punkish, death worship of “Self-Mutilation”, and the finger-tapping, technically sound “Ylem”.
There are some minor quibbles of song selection. The oppressive, slower drags of “Pulling Threads” and “Isa” are tougher to pull off in live settings when rampant energy is needed.
The ears perk up when Morean introduces final song, the raucous “Baphomet”, being about “sex with gods.” A worthy final testament of this German black metal brigade; be sure to check this out. If newer to the band and curious for more, start with 2004’s Stab Wounds.
Release date: January 17th, 2025
Source: bravewords.com
