Of all the many different styles that adorn the vast spectrum of metal, black metal has to be the one that is the most populated by individuals who seem to not know the meaning of slowing down in any forms when it comes to their constant level of production and tenacity when it comes to honing their craft. In recent times, especially, we’ve seen the rise of musicians that cannot be seen as anything short of powerhouses of the style. By and large, Malist deserves to be known as such with its mastermind having dished out four albums since its arrival just seven years ago. Even now with its fifth offensive, Malist proves to be a force to be recognized and respected.

When you become as accomplished as an act like Malist has, you don’t need to prove anything to anyone with your reputation absolutely preceding you and your talent of the sort that cannot be easily turned away from or ignored in any capacity. Yet, it’s in these situations that we often see the acts in question continue to show us just how devilishly good they are at their particular craft even if it means being relatively rigid in creative decisions, not allowing other styles to find their way into the mix. A massive pillar of what can only be described as true black metal but allowing for moments of exploration into other sounds albeit brief, “Of Scorched Earth” stands tall as Malist’s fifth clear victory. Laden with scintillating melodies, atmospheres that are simply captivating to behold, and themes of man’s inevitable downfall to the primal forces, “Of Scorched Earth” is a simple but viciously effective performance that is as delicious as it is intense without a single moment sparing the listener of Malist’s wrath but always more than willing to present overwhelming beauty to allow for contrast even in the face of immense adversity. It’s a massive creation that the modern black metal fan should feel undeniably at home within as Malist puts forth real talent and passion in every possible moment to make the work such a brilliant work from beginning to end with each revisit offering a new vision of magnificence be it through despair, blood, or hope for nature’s freedom from mankind.

What could very likely be argued the first big movement of black metal even so early into 2024, it cannot be argued that Malist has done anything less than excellence within these six tracks. Compelling to the maximum and yet another clear demonstration of what Malist has long been capable of, “Of Scorched Earth” is something that demands to be known and respected.

“Of Scorched Earth” releases on January 19th via Avantgarde Music!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “Of Scorched Earth” on Bandcamp here.

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