This is the debut album from US black metallers Ritual Clearing.
Penitence contains 38 minutes of dark hostility. This is black metal that’s raw and hateful, delivering aggressive music shrouded in blades, spikes, and darkness. Ritual Clearing are ones to watch.
A few different aspects have gone into that making of Penitence. Firstly, there’s classic old-school black metal, as you might reasonably expect. Secondly, you can hear a war metal influence, helping to propel the music forwards with raw venomous brutality. Thirdly, there’s a punk edge to parts of the music, energising it with a feral edge. Finally, you have a keen appreciation for the value of a good riff and a dark melody, neither of which are to be underestimated.
The above all factor into Ritual Clearing’s style, and are used by the band to craft their engaging material. These songs are raw and nasty, but not without finesse. The interplay between the band’s influences manifests as a well-integrated series of overlapping parts, all moving together to create something greater than themselves individually. Brutality works with dynamics to create hooks. Melody works with riffs to create atmosphere. Control works with chaos to create refined aggression. You get the idea; Penitence embodies a range of different approaches, but they’re skilfully entwined so that the songs are seamlessly crafted.
I really enjoyed this. It’s a satisfying and well-delivered album of hostile raw black metal. It’s packed with the sort of riffs and melodies that hit hard, and immerses with its scathing atmospheric assault.
Yep, don’t miss this if you’re a fan of the style.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 