This is the fourth album from US black metallers Amiensus.
Amiensus are a band I’ve really enjoyed watching the development of over the years. 2012’s Restoration was an early highlight, but every release has offered something tasty from the band. Whether this is the stripped back classic approach of 2017’s All Paths Lead to Death, or the standout Abreaction, which rightfully made it onto my 2020 year end list, Amiensus always seem to have something meaningful to say.
All of which begs the question, what does the intriguingly titled Reclamation: Part 1 offer us? Another high quality demonstration of expressive progressive black metal, that’s what. Amiensus continue their track record of winning albums unbroken.
Amiensus have crafted a striking set of songs here. There are aggressive blackened elements for sure, but the emphasis of the material is firmly on atmosphere and depth. Reclamation: Part 1 is certainly a lusciously extensive and sweeping interpretation of the band’s style that’s focused on developing and sustaining emotive presence first and foremost.
Reclamation: Part 1 boasts a rich and luxurious sound – from both production and performance points of view – and across the album’s 52-minute duration it takes the listener on a compelling and absorbing journey. From the textured guitars to the gorgeous use of strings and synths and the sumptuous clean vocals, there’s a lot to engage with. Atmospheric and folk influences abound, all tastefully embedded in a progressive framework. It’s a contemporary brand of black metal that nonetheless contains many classic elements. In some ways it harkens back to the majestic Restoration, although it certainly has its own voice. The fantastic Sun and Moon is one of the most accomplished songs that the band have written, for example, where the band essentially jettison the black metal for more expansive progressive waters.
Colourful and multifaceted, Reclamation: Part 1 is a sterling success for Amiensus, and a reminder, not that one is needed, of why I rate this band so highly. Whether we’ll see Reclamation: Part 1 on this year’s end of year list remains to be seen, especially as there’s rumours of Part 2 coming later in the year too…
Either way, this is great stuff, and Amiensus deserve your undivided attention. Fans of bands such as Agalloch, Enslaved, Borknagar, and Insomnium I urge you to take note.
Wonderbox Metal 