A Flock Named Murder are a black/extreme metal band from Canada and this is their second album.
Incendiary Sanctum only contains four tracks, but has a running time of 64 minutes. A Flock Named Murder are ambitious, and use this time to explore a hybrid sound that combines elements of black, death, doom, and post-metal together very effectively.
With a promo blurb that lists this as being for fans of Agalloch, Neurosis, Inter Arma, Ulver, Fen, The Ruins of Beverast, Ulcerate, and Cult of Luna, it was with great interest that I approached Incendiary Sanctum. What would I find within?
More than I bargained for – a treasure trove of blackened depth and hostility, in fact.
Incendiary Sanctum is a rich and varied album, one that is delivered at an advanced level of competency across the record’s duration. The lengthy songs are well-developed and structured, taking the listener on a journey into A Flock Named Murder’s textured and melodic sound. There is a lot to like, from the introspective post-rock flavours, to the scathing black/death aggression, to the post-metal build/release mechanics, and more besides.
The music combines its influences well, allowing the band the space to explore a well-curated blend of violence, atmosphere, emotion, and worldbuilding. A Flock Named Murder do not focus on any one thing across the album, but manage to strike a careful balance between all of these aspects of their multifaceted sound. Of course, different influences are highlighted and pushed to the forefront at various points across the songs, and in this way Incendiary Sanctum is a well-rounded and engaging listen. The songs are long, but they hold the listener’s attention.
Incendiary Sanctum is a rewarding, absorbing, and enjoyable album. It’s vast and adventurous, with a substantive depth that demands repeat visits to its intriguing shores. However, it’s also dripping in the instant appeal that comes with powerful presence and intense emotion. A Flock Named Murder are adept at their art, producing an album that ensnares easily, but once caught, you won’t want to escape from their embrace.
Essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 