Customer Reviews

Antithesis

5 star:		(2)
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The true success of 'Antithesis' is the fact that Secrets of the Moon don't adhere to the traditional and typical black metal aesthetics; rather they borrow elements from various genres to create an epic and highly enjoyable album that is an instant classic. If you've heard previous Secrets of the Moon albums then you'll be surprised with Antithesis, which sounds nothing like their older albums, adopting the sound that they crafted on their 'Exhibitions EP', which feels more like a hybrid of black metal and rock (black n roll?).

One thing that will not sit well with most traditional black metal fans is the super clean production. Every instrument is clearly audible and has a perfect spot in the recording; a trait that is looked down upon in black metal, but this isn't really black metal, at least not traditional. Though Secrets of the Moon started out as some sort of Symphonic black metal band they've, over the years, evolved into their own sound, a sound that I have yet to hear another band produce. Its an enjoyable, technical, grooving and avant-garde(somewhat) sound that doesn't adhere to any one specific genre standard; and this is ultimately what elevates Antithesis high above most metal albums.

The vocals are delivered in typical black metal rasps; nothing special there, but the lyrics are deep and thought-provoking, which is pretty usual for black metal these days, but nevertheless fitting. The one redeeming factor of the vocals is their rhythm, which can be downright hypnotic at times. The topics covered can be quite convoluted and unintelligible at times, but for the most part you'll understand what is going on. Truth be told I don't listen to Secrets of the Moon for the lyrics, rather its the music behind the lyrics that is attractive. Chugging, droney guitars, octopus-like drumming, wailing solos; its all there, and in the right doses. Nothing overstays its welcome; there are a good portion of songs that are instrumental too, which offers up a nice change of pace from the rasping. While Antithesis is not black metal, it borrows heavily from the genre, using dissonant chords and blast-beats throughout the album when needed, but never straying too long on those features, mixing them up with other playing styles and genres. The guitar riffs are imaginative, original, intriguing and commanding, and the drumming is just plain impressive in how all-over-the-place yet technically precise it is.

I really like Antithesis and its easily one of my favorite albums; with awesome guitar work, impressive drumming and decent lyrics and vocals Antithesis is at the top of the pile when it comes to black metal hybrid albums. For those looking for something new, or for those black metal heads looking for a breather from the traditional and the typical, check out Antithesis.

Highly Recommended

5/5

What attracted me to this band is the track 'Ordinance'. The guitars, drums and vocals are superb. I consider it to be one of the best BM anthems ever because it inspires the same uplifting, buzz that Mayhem's work has achieved.