Absu – Absu

It’s been eight long years, since the last Absu studio album “Tara” was released, back in 2001, leaving us great expectations for what’s to come. Through hard times and a long absence, Absu return with their self-titled album and almost a completely different line-up, with the exception of Proscriptor McGovern, the restless leader of the band, on drums/vocals and basic lyricist/songwriter.

“Absu” is another straight ahead black/thrash attack, combined with intense melodies that create a unique atmosphere of mayhem. Fast double-bass drumming and blasts throughout the album, accompanied with black metal riffing, fast as hell, create a completely majestic scene that captures your interest and drives your head to endless violent movements.

Old school thrash metal riffs are present, in almost every second of the album. The guitar work by new members, Aethyris and Zawicizuz, should be described as monumental, giving an exceptional character and misty mood to the album. Nice solos and licks and great guitar work by both of them.

The long songtitles are also here once again, and so does the lyrical concept, based on Celtic and Sumerian mythology, the band’s trademark since day one. The singing of mastermind Proscriptor gives the “feeling” of black metal, reminding me the old days of Darkthrone and Emperor.

Last but not least, the production and mixing of the album is another element, wisely handled, that actually helps us get, even more, into the dark mood of the songs and become one with them…Absolute black metal in its all!!!

So “Absu”, as being the follow up of “Tara” and a black metal highlight release for 2009, not only continues a series of great releases by the band, but also begins a new era for the future of the band. With new members and hopefully with more records to come, from a band that has set the standards even higher for their next step…
Be their guest…