This is the debut album from Marrow of Man, a one-man black metal band from the Netherlands.
Ancient Hymns of Apocalypse contains 46 minutes of black metal, with some thrash metal elements added in for extra brutality. The promo blurb says that the primary influences of this act are Dissection, Bathory, Evilfeast, Darkthrone, Odium, and Lunar Spells, so that will give you a starting point for the Marrow of Man sound.
Ancient Hymns of Apocalypse is a treasure trove of furious icy riffs and dark serrated atmosphere. It’s distinctly second wave, yet also carries a contemporary touch. It has a melodic attack, yet not overly so, allowing the music to move between both raging hostility and atmospheric depth.
The songs are well-written and performed, revealing a talent for crafting old-school black metal. It’s aggressive and misanthropic, yet also steeped in dark atmosphere that’s infectious. I like that the music recalls the 90s in no uncertain terms, while also brings its own character to bear; the style may be a familiar one, but the artist behind Marrow of Man executes it very well, and infuses his work with passionate energy.
Ancient Hymns of Apocalypse is actually more diverse than you might think for something of this ilk too. Relatively speaking, within its stylistic framework, the album flows well and the various songs each have their own voice with which to speak their dark, and frequently violent, incantations.
A range of moods come to the fore at different points across the music. Sometimes there’s a cold majestic feeling that recalls ancient times. At others there’s a fiery lead that complements the frozen rhythm guitars. On occasion the music drops into a deep blackened groove that slices through the speakers with malevolent ease, while at others a belligerent blackthrash riff chews up the airwaves. I also appreciate that sometimes you just need to opt for sheer blackened brutality, with a track such as Marrow of Man being a good example of frenzied blackened barbarity unleashed.
This is really good, really enjoyable stuff. The artist has a talent for lethal riffs, engaging structures, and memorable aggression. Ancient Hymns of Apocalypse has impressed.
Very highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 