Rotting Christ – Aealo

War-concept albums are something you have all listened to many times, but this time Rotting Christ will show how it’s done the Greek way. Under the title “Aealo”, they sent out a clear message: Rotting Christ are far from tired and are willing to devastate your minds with a release like which we haven’t listened to for quite some time.

From the very beginning, you’ll notice that this album smells ancient Greece all over it. Rotting Christ continue their efforts into a more aggressive direction with folk elements, blending them with catchy riffs and melodies that will easily penetrate your mind. However, there is a little shift towards their older albums, getting some of the familiar yet great stuff they had. I would like to say that their sound feels more “complete” this way, everything fits perfectly into its place and gives a remarkable result. Another feature on the release is guest appearances, like Primordial’s Alan Nemtheanga, Magus from Necromantia, Diamanda Galas, Daemonia Nymphe and Dirty Granny Tales. Last but not least, “Pliades”, a traditional choir from Epirus. As far as the production is concerned, it’s flawless.

What makes “Aealo” great though is not in the music itself, but in the feeling it provokes. The title, meaning “conquest, devastation, catastrophe” in Greek, is definitely well supported by the album. It one of those few albums that have “the ability to make you wander in time and place”, as I like to call it. It gives a taste of war in ancient Greece and the feeling is very real. Songs like “Noctis Era” or “Pir Threontai” will make you wish you were there, having your place in a phalanx, kicking ass without mercy.

I have to admit that personally I’m not the biggest fan of Rotting Christ. “Aealo” though has really left me speechless, it’s epic, aggressive, amazing. I truly recommend to any metalhead out there to get this great album. It deserves a place in your collection and your hearts.