This is the debut album from Turkish blackened death metal band Shrine of Denial.
On I, Moloch Shrine of Denial offer up 31 minutes of blackened death metal that delivers a mix of blunt force and arcane might. It’s a quality album that doesn’t outstay its welcome.
The promo blurb says that this is for fans of Serpent of Old, Dead Congregation, Emperor, Behemoth, Burial Invocation, and The Chasm, which should give you an initial indication of where Shrine of Denial’s proclivities lie. To this list, I’d add Nile, Hate Eternal, and Belphegor.
I, Moloch is a product of a few different influences. Black and death metal are the primary drivers. While the dissonant and atmospheric strains within these both have voices here, these are mixed around the more brutal and aggressive aspects you would expect to hear.
Shrine of Denial are merciless in their execution. The songs are well-written and combine ferocious brutality with dark mood. Bursts of expressive melody are used, alongside blackened shading, to add texture, while death metal muscle and powerful harsh barks power the music ever forward. Sinister dissonance weaves itself through sinuous riffs, and the murderous drums pound with precision. The dark melodies are deeply embedded in the fabric of the music, merging with the riffs to produce a symbiotic relationship that benefits both. Shrine of Denial have a talent for dishing out intricate punishment, but sometimes they clearly just feel a need to throw out some massive riffs too.
Ranging from fast and brutal to prowling malevolence, I, Moloch offers a blackened death metal journey that’s satisfying and enjoyable. Shrine of Denial have produced an engaging slab of considerable ferocity, tempered by an esoteric edge that elevates the material.
Highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 