Baxaxaxa "De Vermis Mysteriis" CD

Jewelcase CD with 16 page booklet!!

German black metal cult Baxaxaxa return with their second full length opus.

Organs ominously begin our descent with a strong and foreboding presence. The band come in without mercy, their classic rendition of true black metal instantly recognisable. Along with the ghastly atmosphere and dynamic instrumentation, the sheer velocity of their playing is undeniably savage with the genres most pure essence at the heart of every sinister moment from the get-go. There is a sepulchral feel to the music, almost funereal, as the spectral soundscapes ferociously flow forth from the black inferno of sonic diabolism. As a band reaching back to 1992, although most of their music coming later, their experience is obvious. Equally audible is the fact this band clearly craft their music carefully as every step seems to be made with purpose and sincerity. The immediate and inescapable aura of the catacomb cult and their violent music shall captivate all adorers of real black metal while sending those unworthy flocking for safety.

Although very stripped back in many senses, there is a huge sound which benefits from a natural production. All elements are easily heard and the drums wide scope punches through the visceral guitars and powerful bass with ease as the unearthly vocals seep in with their menacing howls. This kind of uncompressed, minimalist but clear sound instantly brings foreboding essence of the music to higher ground for all elements to be truly enjoyed. This approach in a world of pseudo-rawness and over-indulgent home studio trickery is refreshing and much more pleasant on the ear. In fact, their approach feels far more genuine and darker than almost all contemporaries. Their ability to keep everything archaic and yet not simply rip off their idols is a tough balance in black metal, but one Baxaxaxa achieve far better than most. This must be commended and I think the reliable level of quality across their releases speaks for itself. Thankfully “De Vermis Mysteriis” seems to follow this magnificent trajectory.

Amidst all the charnel rhythmic desecrations, there is a very unusual but bewitching sense of melody and seem crazed lead work to break things up. Once more, every element feels very much intentional and thought out while retaining the spontaneity and sense of danger that real black metal requires for that authentically disdainful feeling. The ability to go from demonic battery to drudging eeriness is certainly impressive as each feeling conveyed enhances the others, stringing together a tapestry of morbid dread and mystical evil. Every otherworldly moment fills the air with a foggy haze, taking us into this ancient and unfamiliar world of hostility as each track develops gloriously from the last with plentiful nuance and unpredictability to be found within each chapter of this unwelcoming journey. These abyssal demonic visions will contort before you as the sonic treachery summons the darkness around you, taking you further in. Each listen will reward you with true diabolical majesty.

I would argue Baxaxaxa are one of the most consistent and quality black metal bands releasing new material. They worship at the ancient flame, combining the first wave approach and primitive stylings with their own uniquely haunting sense of atmosphere. This new offering is another worthy and wonderful cut of crypt-lurking excellence.

Sample: youtube.com/watch?v=yz3EL8InMIY