I will tell you this at the outset. DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT makes me and inspires me to be a better writer. At times, I find myself at a loss for words or how to properly articulate the emotions I feel or what to describe to you, dear readers, the blackened assault and evocative atmosphere the band creates in each one of their releases. If you are an avid reader or just passing through, here at this site, you are more than likely aware of the band and the history, nay, dare I say the respect in what they have achieved in their close to 20-year existence. Much like their fellow countrymen ENDSTILLE or DARK FORTRESS, they have maintained a solid and consistent, if not moreso, a musical output that stands the test of time and still evokes a mood and sentiment to this day. So, here now, we delve into “Hora Nocturna”, part of the Nigredo Records re-release of the first three albums. What greets you on the onset, and to those that are unfamiliar with their sound, think of a prominent IMMORTAL worship at times, but infused with something more. Take away the fantasy aspect of the former, and DNS delves into a palpable evil darkness in their songwriting. Take that and also the underlying dark overtones of occult mysticism and let it take flight through the malefic voice of vocalist Onielar. Few in the pantheon of Black Metal can match her vocal exhumations. Song after song evil is given a voice through her. Her voice is frigid and evocative and would make Abbath proud. I would give her a step up because her tone is less one dimensional and offers much more variation. It is commendable as well that for the most part the original line-up has remained intact from its inception. They do seem to have an issue with a consistent bassist though. Perhaps a bit of SPINAL TAP – ish episodes is at play here? I jest, of course, few can be or must be willing to sign the pact of blood to be part of the entourage of darkness and death, and to bring it to the masses consistently. So for myself to begin to describe what you already (should) know, and to maybe those paltry few who have not been subjugated to the onslaught of darkness and evil (to quote the almighty BATHORY) I don’t know where to begin and feel dumbfounded on how to convey the blistering speed and march like stomping of the riffs on track three ‘Bearer Of Blackest Might’ or how the drums accentuate the riffing at the same speed on ‘Cimonar De Nuit’. Needless to say, this track is relentless. There are brief moments of ambiance and dark, atmospheric interludes to set the mood and presentation, but overall, the album is littered with cold, biting riffs that cut through you. So, in conclusion, if you bow upon the altar of all that is Black Metal, this or any of their releases, you will do yourself proud and not be disappointed. With all bands, sometimes there is one release that is a bit less than the previous one or the later ones, but that is part of the experience and for you as a listener to find your path. I find this particular release and the more recent “Necrovision” to be the prime. Lastly, I will end it here, so as not to be accused of being president and founder of the DARKENED NOCTURN SLAUGHTERCULT fanboy US chapter. www.facebook.com/d.n.slaughtercultofficial, www.facebook.com/nigredorecords