The Black – Alongside Death

Releasedate: 18-09-2009; Label: Pulverised Records
By: Sabine van Gameren

The Swedish Black Metal band The Black releases a special release from their album “Alongside Death”.

The cult black metallers have formed their band in 1991. After some demo’s there was a debut full length in 1994, after which it stayed quiet on releases until 2008 when “Alongside Death” came to light. Their debut has taken a historical place in black metal collections. Listening to this album, started with mixed feelings. Disappointment, because somehow the expectations are not fully met. I hear not too comprehensive black metal, conspicuously hollow as it is not like they are one of the few who do it like this. On the other hand there is a feeling of joy. This comes in after the third song, where the vocals start to come forward a bit. The sound of this band is traditional and recognizable Swedish. A variation of tempo is often there that do keep you interested in the album.

The album does not score badly, but maybe you have to go into it with a blank scorecard. No expectations. In that case, you will enjoy the album as how it is, not striking it up to anything else but the music that comes from there. Then, this album will score definitely above average, just don’t expect it to be your next top piece.

Line up:
The Black (Make Pesonen): guitars, drums, keyboards
D. Forn Bragman: vocals
Andreas Jonsson: drums

Tracklist: 01. On The Descent To Hell 02. Death´s Crown 03. A Contract Written In Ashes 04. Dead Seed 05. Fleshless 06. Death Throes 07. The Wrath From Beneath 08. Alongside Death

 
Links:
The Black MySpace