Mesarthim – Anthropic Bias / Departure (Review)

This is the latest release from Australian black metal band Mesarthim.

With quite a prolific discography, I don’t get to catch up with Mesarthim as often as I’d like, (though do check out .- -… … . -. -.-. ., The Density Parameter, and CLG J02182–05102), so upon the arrival of Anthropic Bias / Departure I made sure I spent some time with it.

Anthropic Bias / Departure consists of two epic tracks, with a combined duration of 37 minutes in total. It’s not a true new album, but a collection of two previously released songs; Anthropic Bias from 2022, and Departure from earlier in 2024.

Anthropic Bias opens the release, and swallows the listener with cosmic moodbuilding that’s immersive and drenched in atmosphere. Textured electronic sounds and layered synths augment atmospheric black metal that’s cold and expressive. The electronic/synth elements are absorbing and have a progressive flair in places, and I do like the occasional progressive rock influence that crops up on occasion. The black metal boasts more riffs and engaging structures than you might expect, and the song is relatively diverse over its duration.

Departure operates in similar waters to its predecessor, but has less of a progressive influence. Instead, Departure focuses on spaceborne atmosphere and is deeply melancholic – yet also sometimes uplifting. It offers a celestial journey into the heavens, with Mesarthim as your very capable guides. This is my favourite song out of the two. The vast atmospheric spread of the music is hypnotic and absorbing, and in places it soars with an epic grandeur that’s enthralling.

Anthropic Bias / Departure is a thoroughly enjoyable and captivating release. Misarthim are always a joy to listen to, and this is no different.

Very highly recommended for cosmic adventurers everywhere.