Vesterian

“Anthems for the Coming War”

Glorious North Productions

2013

It’s surprising that California’s VESTERIAN haven’t attained more exposure since the band’s previous moniker, CENTURION, began in 1994 and released two demos. Following a name change, VESTERIAN have released a total of five demos before attracting the attention of Glorious North Productions this year with their first full-length. “Anthems for the Coming War” marks a solid entry for the label and propels the group into the pantheon of Black Metal’s adept elite!

Moving from North Carolina to Los Angeles has done nothing to “brighten” the musical vision of this quintet as Under the Red Moon can attest. Here, furious drums foster a rampaging momentum and frigid atmosphere is punctuated by the grim opening riff. About the two minute mark, VESTERIAN embark upon a journey of epic proportions highlighted by an emotional, longing riff before background keyboards enhance the guitar solo that is simply breathtaking! Quite similar to early 90’s Norwegian Black Metal, VESTERIAN opt for melodically, feral rhythms and blasting beats. Comparisons to Troll or early Covenant may be appropriate, especially on Dead Kings of Tyranny, a song that bears all the hallmarks of these bands and, Ancient Bloodthirst an equally stunning example of well thought out riffs and a striking solo! If there’s any criticism to “Anthems for the Coming War”, the sound of the record seems to rely heavily on the thundering drums (which could use a bit more variation) and guitar, whereas the bass is virtually absent from the final mix save for Dark Oceans Roar During the Cosmic Upheaval where it’s lurking in the distant background in the opening riff. Though a cold, threatening aura is achieved, overall, the sound could be “thicker”.

“Anthems for the Coming War” certainly lives up to its name as VERTERIAN storm out of the mellifluous realm of extreme Metal to serve up traditional fare, albeit with panache! Not straying too far from the blueprint of Norwegian 90’s Black Metal, the band aptly performs icy numbers with epic zeal and soaring solos! With one full length under their belt, the future looks “dark” for the five some, if they can include a bit more foundation to the sound and vary the drum tempos. However, this arguably is a solid listen nonetheless!

Standout Tracks: Under the Red Moon, Dead Kings of Tyranny, Blasphemous Sorcery of a Witch King

7.5/10

Chris