Every now and then, things come together as if they were destined to be exceptional. Whether it’s a rising band putting out a career-defining work or a split between two bands that are pillars of their respective genres, the stars can align and deliver unto us a creation that feels magnificent in practically every given form. That certainly felt to be the case when Silver Knife first came around five years ago with the follow-up EP showing us a vast swathe of what this incredibly experienced and talented act can bring to the table. However, it’s with their second album that Silver Knife has likely put together it’s most compelling creation yet.

When we’re dealing with a group of musicians that have as much previous experience in a litany of different acts like what we have here, it’s only natural to expect that something excellent would come as a result of such talent collecting in a single room to put together a performance that lives up to its potential. If it was in its previous efforts that Silver Knife gave us a solid foundation of what it can deliver then it is every given facet of what it delivers within its eponymous sophomore record that we see the international act take things to the next level and offer us black metal of a sort that many strive to achieve with only the finest able to come even close to success. By and large, what’s brought forward in this record is nigh on compelling. Far more epic in scope that its predecessor while never once lingering to wallow in sorrow but, rather, moving quickly and constantly with a sense of urgency that’s fitting for these trying times we find ourselves in. It’s in many senses that Silver Knife adhere to the traditional pillars of black metal while always charging forward into somewhat risky territory to demonstrate that progress cannot be made while standing idly by hoping for the universe to respect your traditions. We’ve seen plenty try to tackle such a delicate balance of nuance and progression, yet Silver Knife once again stands apart from the competition.

Always managing to stay several steps ahead of the game and keeping everything damn stylish in the process, Silver Knife’s self-titled work is something that bands can build a grandiose reputation off of. This is the work of real masters. The quality of Silver Knife is not something that has been doubted since even before their debut, yet it is here in every given moment that Silver Knife does far more than do justice to their latent potential. Along with that, they demonstrate a deep level of understanding and overwhelming craftsmanship that black metal is always in need of and can never have enough.

“Silver Knife” releases on April 19th!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “Silver Knife” on Bandcamp here.

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