Necronomicon
“Unus”
Seasons Of Mist
Released : October 18th, 2019
Right around the 3:10 minute mark of the epic second song, “Infinitum Continuum”, Rob and company break out one of their most majestic and emotional moments in the history of their stellar 31 year career.
Yes, that’s right, Necronomicon have given 31 fucking years of dedication to this dark craft. Before Cryptopsy and Kataklysm became the notorious, token Montreal death metal bands. There was Rob the Witch and his pioneering death metal offering – Necronomicon.
To say that these guys are innovators would be a major understatement. Sure, you might hear overtones of “Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia” on this new (their 7th album) offering, “Unus”. But I thoroughly believe that the inspiration to create their atmospheric and blackened songs comes from within. Not from subscribing to Norwegian black metal trends.
Having known Rob and the band since roughly 1995, I am completely aware that these guys are creators – not followers.
As the follow-up to 2016’s “Advent of the Human God” (also on Seasons of Mist), “Unus” is a serious one-up. Stepping up their game in every aspect of the creative process. Most notably the addition of new drummer, Jean-Philippe Bouchard. A complete powerhouse on the double-kick drumming and blast beat wizardry. This kid is one tight-as-fuck drummer and an incredible addition to the band. A band that has an admirable list of very, very talented skin beaters.
The outstanding, thick and mind-blowingly clear mix was handled by Logan Mader. A choice that has really elevated this album beyond a standard death metal recording. Every instrument has a comfortable pocket in the mix, nothing is over-killed or muddied whatsoever. The placement of the orchestral instruments and operatic singing fall right into the mix perfectly. Like soft falling snow on a warm winter day.
On the sixth number, very interestingly titled “The Thousand Masks”, we are introduced to a somewhat “Egyptian” feel. With unique and exotic instrumentation and riffs that might be rooted in a Hungarian guitar scale – or at least the overall picture sounds exotic. Sure, you might instantly say to yourself that this is reeking of South Carolina death metal kings, Nile. But I assure you, that Necronomicon has had this element of non-western vibe in their writing in their music sing the early 902. Well before Nile made their entrance onto the underground scene.
See also : Pissed Regardless “Imperial Cult” Review
With respect to the album cover, I would say this leaves something to be desired. It is rather lack-luster perhaps – but has an old-school back-patch vibe to it. It doesn’t grab attention the way the music does, that’s for certain. And would be the only qualm for me with “Unus”.
My skin is crawling with a spooky air when listening to “Ascending The Throne Of Baator”. This song is very dark and conjures haunting feelings in mind when enveloping the listener.
Rob’s guitar tone on this album is quite thick and crunchy, especially considering the fact that the guitars don’t seem to be down-tuned very much. The riffs are presented with a command of the guitar in such a tight way that you immediately know this guy wears the guitar as an extension of his heart. He is at one with his craft.
Overall, you will note that I have referenced a few bands herein and I can easily promise you that if you love those artists and if you have not heard of Necronomicon, do yourself a favor and grab this album. It is incredible in every way and you’ll love it. I am going to go out on a limb here and call “Unus” the best album yet from these Montreal dark metal masters.
The album closes out with a the massive and epic number “Vox Draconis”. The weight and emotion of the keyboard/orchestration in this song pummels you right in the chest. So epic!
Check out this album now, and go see them on tour with Suffocation later this month in the United States. They’re the complete package and you’ll be blown away by their magic.
Written by Jeff Longo
For fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Morbid Angel, Septic Flesh
Track listing :
01. From Ashes Into Flesh
02. Infinitum Continuum
03. Paradise Lost
04. The Price Of A Soul
05. Singularis Dominus
06. The Thousand Masks
07. Ascending The Throne Of Baator
08. Fhtagn
09. Cursed MMXIX
10. Vox Draconis
