Md Adlan Ariffin (aka ML) is the mind and the man behind MALAÖUN, a Black Metal outfit from Malasya and “The Inexorable Darkness” is their third release, this time under the premier Mexican label Iron, Blood And Death Corporation. Now, I am not a connoisseur of the scene in Malaysia, but sometimes I think that time stood still in this region of the world. Their scene is very constant and has a certain style that is easily recognized. And MALAÖUN is the perfect example of that pummeling Black Metal that merges the primeval style of (dare I say) classic bands such as NEBIROS and BAZZAH and integrates a raw yet modern production with Death Metal and Doom strokes. The slow and pounding segments are massive, creating an oppressive atmosphere that drives you into deep, cavernous depths and then shocks you with fast grinding parts that feature eerie and creepy melodies giving the songs a trance-like state, topped with a mid pitch grunt that sometimes feels like a demonic whisper. Production wise, the album sounds modern and feels like a huge wall of sound, but it preserves all the early ’90s Black Metal approach. The drums are placed front and center followed by a surprisingly thick guitar and bass tone. I feel the vocals are a tad pushed back in the mix which I think is a nudge to the Black Metal style mentioned above. The mix is solid and balanced and it gives every element enough space in the sonic landscape. The mastering feels a little bricked. Maybe more dynamics would’ve helped since I feel every song is maxed volume wise. The diverse styles and influences showcased here only show ML’s proficiency as a skilled musician. His songwriting is direct, menacing and straight up sinister and his performances are top notch, “The Inexorable Darkness” follows the tradition, so to speak, but it also mixes in the band’s own ideas and attitude. A great and solid album from start to finish. Show some support here: www.facebook.com/malaounbm. And get their album from their label here: www.facebook.com/ibdc666