Even when some of us come to a stop, there are those who just refuse to stop moving forward. The debate of quality over quantity is something that has raged for longer than we can remember and will continue to do so even long after we’re gone, but there are always a few that manage to straddle that line, defy expectations, and continuously show us just how adept they are at their particular craft. Having already released an album in another well-known act, the mastermind known as Noise has already had quite a productive 2026. Now, with the release of the fifth Non Est Deus, Noise shows us just how much more they have up their sleeve with the whole of this record being something that demands to become lost within.

The years have been nothing but kind to Non Est Deus and Noise in general. Like the finest of wines that only become richer in flavor and more layered in its exquisite palate as time goes on, this is an act that has always had a place in the conversations of new and noteworthy black metal whenever a new effort is put out. This time around, there’s more than enough throughout the eleven tracks of “Blessings and Curses” that ought to put the record on the lips of any who would dare consider themselves in the know for what black metal can still be. Furthering many of the trends and tendencies that Non Est Deus has become known for, there isn’t so much as a second of this record that doesn’t constantly pull you further into the dynamic and intensely melodic brand of black metal that Non Est Deus has cultivated for itself, with “Blessings and Curses” always capitalizing on it all to the fullest extent.

Downright infectious, this record makes me realize it’s been all too long since I’ve witnessed black metal played straight that simply will not stop ringing in my ears thanks to its meaty hooks and thrilling riffs. With the backdrop of obvious religious themes that the act has pulled off to great effect already, “Blessings and Curses” really leans into the dichotomy of being in the midst of a schism within oneself where your faith is deeply shaken by the truest suffering, terror, and sorrow that the soul could ever experience. It makes for an exceedingly fiery blend that showcases a struggle that black metal can oftentimes attempt to bring forth, but it’s with a masterful understanding of its craft and constantly honing its own sound beyond that of a razor’s edge that Non Est Deus offers us yet another tremendous display of power and does the concept the utmost justice.

At every turn, Non Est Deus is at the top of its game to make “Blessings and Curses” not just another exemplary addition to an already stellar catalog, but something that has really set the tone for this kind of black metal in 2026 as the year moves on. The second quarter of the year has only just begun, yet I cannot help but concur with those making the argument that Non Est Deus has yet again created what’s more than likely one of the year’s most engaging works of the genre. Of course, time will tell, but the consistency and magnitude of Non Est Deus have always been something we could count on in the past.

LISTEN to “Blessings and Curses” on Bandcamp here.

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