Absu – S/T (2009) [Candlelight] // Grade: A-

All I have to say regarding Absu’s newest self-titled release is; took them long enough! I first heard Absu’s Tara a while back. In fact, I think before I was even in NYC. I wasn’t keen on it. To be honest, I wasn’t ever really into thrash metal and I’m pretty picky about death metal too. Usually sticking to the basics. Tara still is a great album if you’re into the so called “Mythological Occult Metal” genre. Absu sounds like a completely different band. The production values are much more gripping and engaging. For being a black/thrash/death metal band from Texas, these guys know how to shred. The quality of the recording reveals multiple layers of complexities rather than flattening out the sound, which is my gripe with a lot of black metal. This album pops.

Absu has engaged more of the modern-day black metal sound rather than the dirty and gritty sound previously established by early Mayhem, Bathory and Darkthrone albums. The opening track, “Between the Absu of Fridu and Erech” grips you and no matter what you’re doing at the moment, forces you to twitch uncontrollably. Each track on Absu produces a unique tempo and sound while still forming a cohesive feel to the album. It’s no F.O.A.D. but it’s more akin to a bastard mutant lovechild between Diabolical Now by Satyricon and In The Nightside Eclipse by Emperor. Combining two very classic metal sounds without overloading you with blast beats. There’s even some great death metal growls hiding in there.

Bottom line, if you’re a fan of metal, go out and buy this album!

- Prolly