For all that black metal can be in its numerous forms, there’s little that can be compared to when a band comes around and approaches the sound with tact and an understanding of the task at hand. Black metal carved with intelligence and purpose is something that we see plenty attempting to tap into as time has gone on, but few manage to bring it across in such a form that’s truly palpable in their work. Three years ago, it was with their first album that Decipher laid the groundwork for their sound that had more than enough to push them in the right direction in this regard, but it’s with their upcoming second album that they’ve undoubtedly succeeded on every possible front.

Make no mistake when I describe what Decipher has accomplished here as a bloated work that is often meandering and wasting your time given the use of the word “intelligent”. This is black metal that takes every step with real purpose and knows precisely what the best next move is in every instance to account for every eventuality. Whatever goal or vision Decipher sought to bring about with the creation of “ΘΕΛΗΜΑ”, it is apparent in every given track that they’ve more than succeeded in doing so. Decipher holds nothing back whether it’s in terms of masterful riffage, twisting passages through alchemical realms that ponder the very state of existence as much as they eviscerate this physical plane, or transmuting their black metal into something that embodies the core values of what the genre has long been known for while always ensuring that the unique flavors and personality of Decipher is constantly bursting forth. It’s an uncompromising vision of black metal that sought to be its own thing, and the evidence of victory is simply staggering given the unfolding madness of “ΘΕΛΗΜΑ”. Rather than seeking to put forth a supreme masterwork or something that redefines black metal, it’s here that Decipher was driven singularly by an artistic vision undeniable.

With results befitting their ambition and talent, it’s here that Decipher should be immensely proud of what they’ve accomplished with it surely being indicative of what they still have to throw down. Many have come into the realms of black metal with grand plans and loads of effort, but it’s with “ΘΕΛΗΜΑ” that Decipher not only sets itself apart as a band that pulls it all off to superb effect, but one that’s infectious and memorable from beginning to end.

“ΘΕΛΗΜΑ” releases on March 20th via Transcending Obscurity Records!

LISTEN to an advanced track from “ΘΕΛΗΜΑ” on Bandcamp here or via YouTube below.

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