First off, great title, now how do you live up to it, and why has it not been used before? Who is Chthonian? Finntroll vocalist Matias Lillmans’ previous band, which he is still in, of course. What else is Chthonian? Three talented guys playing black metal the way they wanted it to sound, and that is the Chthonian definition that concerns me. They play fast and brutal with a blackened disposition, heavy on the rhythm. Rhythmic riff dominated with a heavy handed drum pattern. The basic formula is pummel you into submission with the drums and flatten you with the crushing guitars, relentless and repetitive with just enough songwriting skill on display to keep you straining to remain conscious long enough to hear the whole song.

We hear nothing about the silence in between. The beatings are so vivid that the poor sucker in the fetal position over in the corner is experiencing flashbacks in between the torture sessions. Song titles like “That’ll Teach You” and “Weep Human Weep” give little wiggle room for interpretation. Some lyrical gems; “I refuse to breath the same air as you,” or “Swallow the Blood.” By the way, they are Finnish, should have said that up front.

On the downside, all the beatings tend to blend together. On second thought, that may be an upside. If you are looking for technical innovation look elsewhere. If you are looking for another carbon copy black metal project look elsewhere as well. They are not the most original thinkers out there but they certainly are trying to put their own stamp on Finnish black metal.

Have this disc on hand for when you get roped into driving your grandmother home from the beauty parlor, it will scare those new curls straight again.

[Visit the band's website]

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