BEHEMOTH Unleashes 'I, Scvlptor' EP: A Dark Journey Through the Abyss
In a bold move that might have raised a few eyebrows, BEHEMOTH has unleashed their latest EP, 'I, Scvlptor', following the mixed reception of their audaciously titled studio album 'The Shit ov God'. While the title may have invited ridicule, the music speaks for itself—this eight-track beast is a testament to the band's relentless evolution, showcasing their most potent offering since 2014's 'The Satanist'.
The EP kicks off with the blistering title track and 'Lord ov the Horizons', both new and exclusive to this release. The title track embodies BEHEMOTH's signature sound, weaving a hypnotic and staccato riff with a lead melody that coils around it like a serpent ready to strike. It's a masterclass in songwriting, pulsating with sinister energy and dynamic shifts that only Nergal and the crew can conjure. 'Lord ov the Horizons' escalates the tension with its foreboding minor-chord melodies before drummer Inferno unleashes a barrage of thunderous snare rolls, leading into a relentless storm of melodic tremolo picking and a fiery solo from Seth.
Fans will also revel in the re-recorded versions of 'Rise of the Blackstorm of Evil' and 'In Thy Pandemaeternum'. These tracks breathe new life into the original demos from the early '90s, amplifying the dynamics and orchestral depth that the initial productions sorely lacked. Among the standout tracks, 'Begotten' is a ferocious testament to true black metal, with Nergal's blistering vocals taking center stage, proving yet again why he remains a titan in extreme metal.
In a nod to the genre's roots, the EP features a cover of VENOM's 'In League With Satan', which is as entertaining as it is fitting, bolstered by guest vocals from DIMMU BORGIR’s Shagrath. The collection wraps up with a live rendition of BATHORY's 'The Return of Darkness and Evil' and a rough mix of 'Lord ov the Horizons', rounding out a diverse and compelling listen.
BEHEMOTH continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their craft and a steady release schedule that keeps the momentum alive. As the touring cycle for 'The Shit ov God' comes to a close, 'I, Scvlptor' serves as a vital stopgap, quenching the thirst of die-hard fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Nergal and the band’s dark odyssey.