« Drowning in Depression » (demo)
Self Released/Independent
2012
Argentina is not normally known for its horde of Black Metal outfits paying homage to the dark, but DARK BLASPHEMER certainly has done their homework. Though an album a few years old now, premier demo, « Drowning in Depression » takes the Black Metal template and fuses it with harrowing depressive results.
Coming across as very somber, opening instrumental track gently plucks guitar strings much the same way as Anders « Blakkheim » Nystrom did so many moons ago in KATATONIA’s early days. From there, the twosome, in Nicolas Cisneros and Milton Oscares, introduce listeners to minimalist Black Metal, albeit with rousing depression and brooding tension in songs, « Eternal Sleep« , « Suicide My Mind« , and title track. Each number features lumbering riff ideas that capture the spirit of what the two are hoping for along with miserably, distorted vocals! « Dead Emperor » also exudes this feeling but adds subtle touches of background keys while classical piano brings the song to a close.
Contrarily, DARK PLASPHEMER does reach great heights of fury with « Black Warrior« , « Blasphemer » and « Devastation World« . Here, songs begin in a fevered pitch, often rampaging until the pace is slowed to a mid-paced crawl, perfect for headbanging! What does quickly become apparent, however, is that the songs seem slightly formulaic in their approach and need to branch out a bit more, especially on the slower numbers that hint at greatness! The piano outro on « Dark Emperor« , for instance shows signs of musicianship that crosses genre borders and could use more exploring.
With all the potential to rise beyond their wildest imaginations, the duo of DARK BLAPHEMER definitely prove there is much to discover and enjoy here. As the faster numbers bear all the characteristics of seasoned Black Metal acts before, « Drowned in Depression » includes ideas that may bear some (rotten) fruit if only they capitalize on the details which allow them to stand out.
Standout Tracks: « Eternal Sleep« , « Dead Emperor« , « Drowned in Depression »
7.5/10
Chris
