COR SCORPII
Monument + Attargangar
(Dark Essence Records / Karisma Records)
70:39min

I have a CD by the Norwegian band ULCUS somewhere around. This one reminded me a lot to them. Later I found out that some former members are here. I would say in fact, that COR SCORPII is like the spiritual continuation of that band. Yes, most of the members of ULCUS went to WINDIR and after it’s demise, VREID was formed. COR SCORPII is a band that continues this connection, and as that, shares members with most of the aforementioned bands. And after the first-born evil offspring, of all names mentioned, this band here is in my eyes, the best of them. The style is rooted in the old quasi-symphonic Black Metal that Norway used to desecrate many moons ago. There is a huge use of the keyboards, but on this one it sounds done with style and for once, done right. The use of keyboards in parts where they are not needed turns a good idea into a joke. COR SCORPII keeps it simple and uses them not only as encompassing the overall sound, but also at time giving the music the lead. Yes, I think most of the things found in this album have surfaced on other releases, and yes, the music style is at times stagnating in a flood of similar releases, but on this one, the aggression, the wicked melodies and the competent production, makes for an above average album. If one closes the eyes, the essence of malefic Black Metal is there. And whereas some old style Black Metal bands sacrifice distortion on guitars, thus taking away heaviness, or others abuse of keyboards and full guitar sound, this Norwegian horde was clever enough to keep the right balance. ‘I, The Damned’ is a perfect example on the way the band can fuse many moods and it all flows like one deadly dart to the heart of all that is holy. ‘Our Fate, Our Curse’ is also a good example of how good an easy the band can achieve atmosphere, aggression, heaviness and melody. The strong occult Heavy Metal influence also shines through all the songs. This special edition also contains as a bonus their demo, which started to roll the name and was a teaser for greater things to come, in the same style, although with lower production values. A very good release of epic, melodic Black Metal done with conviction. www.myspace.com/corscorpii, www.darkessencerecords.no

Julián Núñez

Julián Núñez

Related reviews / interviews:
COR SCORPII - Ruin (Julián “Fotefar” Núñez)

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