Hungarian black metal. Just writing that makes it sound evil and foreboding doesn’t it? Aetherius Obscuritas have been around since 2002, but Black Medicine is my first exposure to the band, and it’s definitely a well received one.

The vocals of Arkhorrl (who actually also records all the instruments) is the highlight of Black Medicine, they have that raspy quality instead of the deep resounding style of gutterals. Arkhorrl’s style actually reminds me a lot of  V.I.T.R.I.O.L. (that will be the first and last time I type that damn name out in this review) from Anaal Nathrakh, and even Trevor Strnad from The Black Dahlia Murder. Its also amazing that Arkhorrl concocted this album on his own. I realize that many black metal projects are single and duel undertakings, but when done right, I never stop being impressed by their effectiveness. Black Medicine is a solidly produced album that really doesn’t give the effect of it being a one man operation using fruity loops and garage band. This is really a solid naturally melodic black metal (i.e. not Dimmu Borgir) project, and a worthy addition to any black metal fan’s collection.

VERY GOOD

Similar Artists: Anaal Nathrakh, Emperor, Darkthrone

1.    Legels? lélegzet / First Breath
2.    The End (The Predicted Fall Version)
3.    Black Medicine
4.    Passed Out of Sight – Passed Out of Mind
5.    Fagyos Ölelés / Freezing Embrace
6.    Zord Mosoly / Grim Smile
7.    The Black Tormentor of Satan
8.    The Moon Shield
9.    Circinus Nebulae
10.    A Múlt Lábnyoma / In The Wake of a Remain Footprint
11.    Black Demon (Marduk Cover)

Arkhorrl – All vocals and instruments

Paragon Records

http://www.arkhorrl.hu/

http://www.myspace.com/aetheriusobscuritas

Review by CODY