Band: Barshasketh
Album: Antinomian Asceticism
Genre: Black Metal
Country: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Label: World Terror Committee
Released: 9th of January 2025
Introduction
Barshasketh, the black metal band from the United Kingdom (originally from New Zealand), has 4 full albums below its belt but their latest album, Antinomian Asceticism was my introduction to the band. A member of the black metal promotion discord server recommended the album to me, and after a few spins, I came to the conclusion that it fits the style of black metal that I like perfectly.
The band plays Occult black metal, now personally I’m not very fond of all those sub-genres within black metal because it’s getting ridiculous with a plethora of sub-genres to choose from. For me, black metal is black metal and all those sub-genres are well, not needed. But that’s my opinion, of course.
But whatever it’s called, as said, it clicks with me. Let’s find out why that’s the case…
Antinomian Asceticism
Tracklist:
- Radiant Aperture
- Nitimur in Vetitum
- Lebenswelt Below
- Charnel Quietism
- Phaneron Engulf
- Antinomian Asceticism
- Exultation of Ceaseless Defiance
One of the reasons why this album clicked with me, was the intro song of the album, Radiant Aperture. The start of the song just hits differently. It’s a wall of sound, and it has a take no prisoners’ attitude. The drums provided by MK are great, but the vocals, that’s the true selling point for me on this album.
The vocals are taken care of by members KG and MK, and they do an outstanding job. The vocals really sell this album (at least it does for me), and another bonus for the mixing of the album. The vocals aren’t drowned by the drums and guitars, it all fits perfectly together like a jigsaw puzzle.
But it’s not only the vocals that make for a great album it’s the complete package, the artwork, the drums, the riffs it’s all very well executed. As said, I wasn’t familiar with the band, but this album made sure I started listening to the older albums as well.
Conclusion
That brings us to the conclusion. The album is great, and I thoroughly enjoyed it so far, it’s still on the daily rotation and has been for a while now, so that’s a good sign. The year 2025 started off with a banger of an album, and I’m eagerly awaiting what the year will bring. I’m also looking forward to what Barshasketh releases when their next endeavour is out, but only time will tell.
For fans of no-nonsense black metal, this is a must-listen. I wouldn’t surprise me if this album will end up on one of the albums of the year lists, even though the year is still very young.
8,5 – Very Good: An impressive album that rises above many others. It features innovative ideas, captivating lyrics, or excellent musicianship that makes it stand out.
Your thoughts on: Barshasketh — Antinomian Asceticism
Support the band here: https://barshasketh.bandcamp.com/album/antinomian-asceticism
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