This is the second album from French black metal band Iffernet.
Silences assaults the listener with 38 minutes of underground black metal. It’s harsh and unforgiving, but isn’t lacking in finesse or nuance. The promo blurb mentions Weakling, Urfaust, and Fluisteraars, which should give a rough idea of what we’re dealing with here.
Iffernet offer a stripped back attack that manages to deliver a mood-rich form of blackened aggression. Combining both traditional and modern elements, Silences merges the classic Scandinavian style with more contemporary influences, which includes a depressive black metal edge. The end result is a slice of modern black metal darkness that has well-developed presence and character.
Alongside a certain level of raw aggression Iffernet build atmosphere well, creating melancholic moods through the careful application of riffs and shaped distortion. The songs are well-crafted, showing an understanding of the style and a desire by the artists to create something that rises higher than the pack. Iffernet clearly understand atmosphere, and use this knowledge to great effect during the songs.
The vocals appear to be performed by two singers, as far as I can tell. At any rate, there are two main types of vocals. One is of a darkened post-metal style, and is very effective. The other is more of an individual proposition; it leans into the depressive style more, and is therefore bound to be more of an acquired taste for some. I especially enjoy it when both vocals are entwined with each other.
Silences is a very strong album that offers an experience that’s a cut above that of your average black metal act. It’s immersive and engaging, and benefits from a level of dynamic structuring and emotive musical flow that’s less commonly found. Check out what Iffernet are doing on Silences, as it’s worth spending some quality time with.
Very highly recommended.
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