2024-01-17 08:00:13
(c) Nicholas Dodge
Almost exactly two years following the release of their debut, simply titled “Abhoria”. Aboria back. You can hear that the new material was created only a short time later and has been withheld until now „Depths“ not necessarily, because musically the US trio has audibly developed further. Although they continue to explore black metal areas with increasing enthusiasm, things are now more melodic, deadly and complex, supported by the new frontman Ben Pitts (In The Company Of Serpents).
A concept album was avoided, but instead deals with anthological stories regarding the extreme scenarios and harrowing experiences of a society that survived a kind of horror scenario. In “The Well,” a character must contemplate how everyone who drank from a poisoned spring perishes horribly. Evocative dark metal influences, especially at the beginning, as well as a razor-sharp solo set fresh accents without completely moving away from black metal expectations. Pitts appears grumpy and pissed, acts as the storyteller of the torments of hell and skilfully directs the action.
The closing “Winter’s Embrace” is also exciting, gradually bringing the increased penchant for infernal melodies into focus. Complete collapse is imminent and Abhoria stirs the cauldrons with increasing enthusiasm. The superficially static appearance is good, but underneath it is bubbling enormously – a constant back and forth of impending transience. The stop-and-go approach of “They Hunt At Night” also works well, hints at stumbling, it feels like you’re tripping over your own feet and yet you’re able to pick yourself up skillfully. Nevertheless, the melodically grooving middle part is surprising.
Although connections to the debut cannot be dismissed, Abhoria brings a very welcome breath of fresh air and fuels itself through absolute madness. “Depths” stays true to black metal, but approaches things a little differently, which suits the trio’s sound really well. A little more melody, complex approaches and leaden heaviness meet darkness, horror stories, raging rage. Abhoria are extending their feelers to this second offspring and tapping into their potential. Something is brewing there.
Rating: 8/10
Available from: January 19, 2024
Available via: Prosthetic Records (Cargo Records)
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AbhoriaMetal
Category: Magazin, Reviews
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#Abhoria #Depths
