Imperial Vengeance – Black Heart of Empire

Releasedate: 23-09-2011; Label: Transcend
By: Sabine van Gameren

Imperial Vengeance is a British duo . They make Death Metal since 2007 and after releasing a debut in 2009, they are now back with a second full length “Black Heart of Empire”.

“Beginning with a four part song cycle entitled ‘The Gaslight Aria’, the album proceeds through a collection of narratives that present a singularly dark vision” That’s what they announce it, the album of ex-Cradle of Filth guitarist Charles Hedger (Mr. Charles Edward-Alexander here) and his mate. Must be said that it is quite an abstract description of what you get, but it indicates the band brings something special, rather than just a collection of songs bundled in an album. In this case, the release is more an experience. This experience comes with many arrangements, leading into a full Death Metal sound with the melodic side still in an obvious place in their sound. The band finds a way to remain from being too standard, having their own pig-headed way of arranging it, no fear of being accused of falling for the melody and leaving the vehemence behind, which actually is nothing more than something that people might expect upfront. Songs like “Black Heart of Empire” and “The Devil In Detail” are perfect examples of how these two work together, hand in hand.
Simply said an experience with many surprises, the spookiness within, the vehemence when you need it. To be recommended: try it, love it!

Line up:
Mr. David Bryan – Bass
Mr. Charles Edward-Alexander – Vocals, Guitars, Programming

Tracklist: 01. Scenes of Inked Treachery 02. Black Heart of Empire 03. The Voice of Thelema 04. The Ghost Light 05. Veiled Threats Over Cocktails 06. The Devil in the Detail 07. Out Went the Candle 08. Upon the Stair 09. Of Insect and Allegory 10. The Black Idol

Links:
Imperial Vengeance Facebook