This is the second album from Doodswens, a black metal band from the Netherlands.
Doodswens comes to us with a refreshed lineup, (including a member of Dödsrit/Ossaert), and 37 minutes of occult black metal. Doodswens know how to put on a live show, but how does this now translate onto record?
Very well, it turns out.
Doodswens is black metal that’s violent and dark. It’s driven by furious aggression that’s spiked with vicious screams. Of the latter, the singer’s voice is a strong one. Her vocals are harsh and daemonic, yet more expressive than the norm too. She enunciates well, while still sounding inhuman.
The riffs are well-crafted blackened ice, sharpened with lethal passion into a fierce killing edge. They shape the songs with predatory effectiveness, but also evoke storm-shrouded lands of frozen darkness. In other words, the songs are hostile and aggressive, but also carry atmosphere. It’s a good combination.
You can hear the bass make a positive impact on the songs in places, stepping out of the shadow of the guitars. This is frequently an asset when it happens. The drums underpin everything with brutal efficiency. Although they can sometimes lack a bit of weight when the blast beats kick in, this is not a huge issue.
Doodswens have created a collection of tracks that deliver a classic black metal ritual that’s effective and enjoyable. Doodswens packs a punch, builds atmosphere, and overall delivers a hit of black metal that’s worth spending time with.
Highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 