ROTTING CHRIST
"Sanctus
Diavolos" (Century Media; 2004)
Reviewed by Snidermann
I have always been impressed by great bands that come from relatively small countries – Moonspell hailing from Portugal and Rotting Christ from Greece being two of the primary examples of this observation. I have long been accustomed to hearing Rotting Christ, but only in single song formats rather than full-length efforts up until the band's 2002 release "Genesis."
What sticks in my mind about "Genesis" is that
it was quite a ferocious record – long-time fans of the band called it a 'return
to form.' "Genesis" had an added emphasis on electronics which provided an added
dimension to the band's black metal backbone. "Sanctus Diavolos" takes away a
bit of the electronica sheen and trades it for a more sturdy rhythmic record. "Genesis"
also has more choir-like vocals which pushes the band into a more Therion-lilke
direction
At the end of the day I consider "Sanctus Diavolos" to be a slight drop-off from
"Genesis." However, I would not hesitate for a second to heartily recommend "Sanctus
Diavolos" to Rotting Christ fans in particular and black metal fans in general.
Personally, I like "Sanctus Diavolos" a lot, it just lacks a certain 'stickiness'
that I heard with "Genesis" and the band's other
"Sanctus Diavolos" was produced by Sakis and mixed by Fredrik Nordstrom.
Rotting Christ: Sakis on vocals, guitars, and keyboards, Andreas on bass, and
Themis on drums. Guest lead guitar on "Visions Of A Blind Order" by Gus G.
(Nightrage).
For more information visit http://www.rotting-christ.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2005 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Nov 2024 13:00:26 -0500.
