This writer has been familiar with the band’s name for some years now, but this latest album by the Italian five-piece is actually the first time I have heard them properly. And what a very pleasant surprise it was! The opening track immediately pulled me in and got my attention with its hooks, catchy songwriting, great riffs, excellent vocal delivery and all round quality. I was immediately reminded of “Sister” era IN SOLITUDE and the vibe of that era of the band keeps reappearing throughout the course of the album. Also DANZIG and THE DEVIL’S BLOOD also comes to mind at times throughout. CARONTE have put a mix of styles into their musical melting pot and have created a very captivating spiritual sonic brew, there are the parts reminiscent of the above mentioned bands, Post Punk, Occult Rock and the esoteric Dark Doom Italy is renowned for and CARONTE slot in perfectly alongside the older Italian occult masters such as DEATH SS, PAUL CHAIN, BLACK HOLE and newer practitioners of dark doom BLACK OATH, ABYSMAL GRIEF, EPITAPH etc. This is an atmospheric journey into a musical land of mystery and the musical chains of death will keep your focus and attention locked in and shackled until the last notes ring out. Highly recommended and another excellent release from the ever reliable Ván Records. www.facebook.com/ferociailluminata, www.facebook.com/vanrecords