Split releases always give more than they behold. No matter whether it’s classic splits or new splits, they always come with surprises and new findings. It’s always possible to discover a completely new act, and if you’re blown away by that, you will start an extensive following. Also, it can have tracks that were never released by a band that you follow. This is why I find splits as a very intriguing medium. Now, this new split will introduce you to DOMINION OF SUFFERING and PHOBONOID. DOMINION OF SUFFERING hails from Switzerland and these guys know what they’re doing for sure. In the three tracks presented here, their fanatic Black Metal, that is effectively layered with Death Metal, can tear into you with no mercy right from the start. It’s a raw, primitive style, that reminds me a bit of some older German and Swiss Black Metal. While it’s not super technical, they make up for it with pure intensity and an aura of bleakness. Fans of stuff like ARCHGOAT or BESTIAL WARLUST will dig their sound. The other half comes from Lord Phobos, the sole member of PHOBONOID which hails from Italy. Although it’s a one-man project, the PHOBONOID tracks have a cool mix of Black Metal with some doomier passages mixed in. There’s a sinister, almost sci-fi vibe flowing throughout too. Both the opening and closing tracks pull you into his dark, diabolical world. Overall, it’s interesting to hear how both acts have slightly different takes on Black Metal. DOMINION OF SUFFERING brings raw aggression, while PHOBONOID cranks up the heavy atmosphere. But they complement each other well across the six tracks split between them. So, kudos to Godz Ov War Productions for putting this enticing split release out. If you dig old school Black Death feelings, make sure to give this a listen. To find out more about the bands and label please visit https://dominionofsuffering-sma.bandcamp.com, www.facebook.com/phobonoid, www.facebook.com/godzovwar.