jewel case with 8-pages booklet limited 300 copies
Exactly three years ago, Chao Abyssi released their debut EP, "Spiritual Essence." It was a highly promising release, certainly setting the bar for the band. In such cases, I love it when the successor to an EP/demo/split/whatever, like our master Artur Partyka, surpasses expectations. And Chao Abyssi took a noticeable step forward with "Archaic Chants of Chaotic Visions." The guys didn't attempt any musical revolutions, staying rather within the strict confines of the genre. At the same time, it's hard to deny that their music hasn't changed. So what has evolved? First and foremost, I think the material from the full album is much more aggressive. I'd also say simpler. There's none of that atmospheric spirit that covers our heads in a dark cloak of darkness (if you don't count the truly compelling intro and interlude). With these recordings, Chao Abyssi have ripped off that mantle with a single swipe of their hand, allowing us to be assaulted by a raging snow blizzard. The new compositions are uncomplicated, based on just a few ideas. At the same time, they're far from lo-fi black metal, though they do retain that primitive, raw element. However, they're enriched by the occasional (though sparse) dissonant hooks and unobtrusive tremolo melodies that have characterized the band's music from the very beginning. However, the foundation here is primal, icy black metal, inspired primarily by Norwegian influences. Beyond the riffing itself, the vocals, also incredibly aggressive, remind me of the early recordings of a certain boy from Bergen. Momentarily, specifically in "He Who Reigns Supreme," there are also direct references to Darkthrone, and it's a shame there aren't more of them. "Archaic Chants of Chaotic Visions" is pure black metal, defining the genre in its own interpretation, sending shivers down your spine, evoking memories, and piercing your head like the thorns of a crown of thorns. The crowning glory, while I'm at it, is the album's final track, "Apotheosis of Hatred," which, in its first part, is arguably the most furious, most direct track, simultaneously containing all the album's representative elements. Chao Abyssi have recorded an album that is an absolute must-have for any fan of the genre. It's a powerful monolith, illustrating black metal from its early stages, untainted by any signs of commercialism. And any other recommendation is probably unnecessary here.
Sample: youtube.com/watch?v=0nd0uYNMCMQ&t=705s
