Les Bâtards du Roi are a French black metal band and this is their second album.
Les Bâtards du Roi play melodic black metal with a medieval theme. Les Chemins de L’Exil brings us 47 minutes of material, and it’s pretty damn good. Actually, that’s an understatement – this is exceptional, and stands out from the average black metal release noticeably.
It’s rooted in the second wave, yet has a contemporary edge that’s undeniable. I’m put in mind of a compelling mix of Cradle of Filth, Dissection, Kanonenfieber, and Moonlight Sorcery, although that’s also not the full story. Les Bâtards du Roi also have a personality and presence of their own. They have the sort of easy talent that shines potently through the material, and I can easily see them playing on larger and larger stages, should they get the chance.
Les Bâtards du Roi’s melodic skills are ably displayed across Les Chemins de l’Exil, and the songwriting is consistently strong. There’s a symphonic side to their sound, which I like, although it’s not as overt as the primary melodies. I also really like the occasional use of clean singing to enrich the lead screams.
The music combines song-focused hooks with melodic depth and atmospheric life. It’s a good combination, with Les Bâtards du Roi showcasing their skills in no uncertain terms. This is black metal with an emphasis on songs, and the band clearly know how to pen a good tune. There is some catchy stuff on Les Chemins du Roi, that’s for sure.
The riffs, melodies, and vocals are all designed to get under your skin. Les Chemins de l’Exil is one of the more accomplished and memorable song-based black metal albums I’ve heard in a while. I return to the word catchy over and over again – it’s just infectious. Les Bâtards du Roi have impressed.
The potential for Les Bâtards du Roi to break out of the underground is huge. Whether they will or not is another matter, as that sort of thing appears to be down to luck more than anything, but I can easily imagine them gaining stature quickly, given the right opportunities.
If you’ve a taste for black metal that you just can’t get out of your head, that’s anthemic and epic, yet still has emotion and aggression, then this is not to be missed.
Essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 