Demonium "Sapiens Dominabitur Astris" CD Digipack

Descripción From several bands listed under the name Demonium here at MA this Ukrainian blackened death metal outfit is one of the few that is still active and putting out stuff on a regular basis. Their most recent full length from 2016 has been titled “Sapiens Dominabitur Astris” which translates to something like “The wise man will rule the stars”.
Like often the case when it comes to that kind of slightly unorthodox metal this album does not simply follow a pop song formula consisting of the traditional verse-bridge-chorus parts. The songs feature arrangements that flow and evolve as each riff closes. Each transition marks an indistinguishable final chapter in a song segment. This album is mostly comprised of pieces, not standard songs. However, it is the way how those pieces have been put together that makes this album stand out from most of its peers.
Hard hitting trademark chords are pitched against mesmerizing and at first glance slightly disharmonic-sounding melodies, creating an unholy force of destruction. The main chops are mainly reminiscent of classic black/death metal bands but the melancholic and chaotic nature creates a slightly apocalyptic or post-metal feeling. The main chords are colossal and the buzz-saw tone of the guitar helps to create a filthy and doom-soaked atmosphere. The lead guitar harmonies are cleverly implemented and offer hints of melody into an otherwise atonal framework.
The crawling bleakness and the haunting harmonies building the backbone to the heavy instrumentation are a very important factor to the overall picture that is painted on this record. While the tempo is ultra-speedy most of the time there are some very slow and intense but also a few faster sections. This album is horrifying, harrowing and darkening but also inherits a certain beauty and glimmers of hope. It reminds me of some classics, but it’s more gloomy and more frowzy than most of its peers. Enhanced by some very disturbing pieces and harmonies the whole record feels like a dark and mystical journey.
The production is also spot on. While I am generally speaking more a fan of punchy and clear mixes the overall sound perfectly fits to the style. Demonium exactly knew where they wanted to go with their album and everyone looking for a piece of primitive yet captivating metal off the beaten paths should check “Sapiens Dominabitur Astris” out.
Sample: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5R0LwzuUNM&t=651s