Emperor

In The Nightside Eclipse (Century Black)
by Chris Dick

A cold wind rolls across your back. As you turn to look, a bleak, black thunder storm comes barreling through. That storm is Norway’s most coveted black metal export, Emperor. Originally under the moniker, Thou Shalt Suffer, founding member Samouth soon realized that that name didn’t fit the majestic evil that we now know as Emperor. In the Nightside Eclipse, the band’s long-awaited debut, has established itself as black metal’s long-overdue benchmark. With a demo, Wrath of the Tyrant, a 7″, As the Shadows Rise, a self-titled mini-LP, and now a full-length under their belt, the band has already begun that long voyage through the turbulent waters of underground metal. In the Nightside Eclipse showcases some of the most violent vocals and guitars accompanied by ceremonial sounding synths. “Towards the Pantheon” and “Beyond the Great Vast Forest” are stunning examples of this dark art. “Inno A Satana” brings a welcome element into the songsmithing process: the use of harmonic vocals. Vocalist Ihshan sings the opening line, “O Mighty Lord of the Night,” chilling the soul like a full moon in December. If this is not enough to make you bow to the Dark Lord, nothing ever will! Emperor continues to astonish fans and critics alike, so if you see this in the stores, I urge you to spare some coin. Embrace the majesty and the night sky.