This is the third album from Greek black metal band Lunar Spells.
Ever since first encountering Lunar Spells last year on their split with Order of Nosferat I’ve been interested to see what they could do with a full length, and that time has now arrived. With 36 minutes of piercing black metal, Sacraments of Necromantical Empires has not disappointed.
Lunar Spells’ sound is rooted in the Scandinavian second wave, and the band’s ability to deliver that classic style is readily apparent as soon as opener Eerie Nocturnal Shades fades up. Honestly, it takes me right back to the 90s straight away. All of the songs are high quality, and I like that the band infuse their material with real feeling. It’s hard to pick a favourite, but I do especially like Demoniac Chalice, with its captivating mix of winding riffs and funereal atmosphere.
Sacraments of Necromantical Empires is addictive. A relatively brief running time coupled with a satisfyingly raw-yet-decent production, and you have the equivalent of black metal easy listening if you’re a fan of the underground style. It obviously helps a great deal too that the band are so capable at what they do, of course. Lunar Spells boast a fine collection of dark riffs, mysterious melodies, and frosted atmospheres, which all mean that Sacraments of Necromantical Empires offers a very fine listen.
The raw black metal scene may be a crowded and well-worn one, but Lunar Spells stand out with their quality execution of an ancient style. If furious blackened aggression, grim macabre atmosphere, cold melodic power, and scathing high pitched screams appeal, then listening to Sacraments of Necromantical Empires should be high up on your list of priorities.
If you enjoy bands such as Sargeist, Hecate Enthroned, Azaghal, Darkthrone, and Behexen, then Lunar Spells are one for you.
Wonderbox Metal 