23 December 2023
Totenmesse released this album in November 2023 and immediately managed to reserve a solid place for themselves among the candidates for the albums of the year. The musical structure which can be told to bear the characteristics of the Polish Black metal scene in general, manages to offer something unique at certain moments. For those who don’t know, Totenmesse is composed of musicians who play in many bands in Poland. The album, which has calmer moments from time to time, is successful to satisfy the listener with quality Black metal with razor sharp guitars, full throttle drums and corrosive vocals.
The “Nasum” like grindcore feeling that is felt from the very begining is one of the trademarks of the album. This attitude makes great contribution to the musical maturity. In some places, the vocalist even resembles the Great Mieszko. The places where the music leans on melancholic melodies have a typical black metal feel. In some places the vocalist winks at “suicidal” waters. These touches add to the flavour of the album.
Lyrics-wise it can be told that the band shout out their hatred for life. In this respect, they have a nihilistic point of view as we are familiar with many Polish black metal bands.
The album cover is very original and in terms of the overall feeling it creates, it suits the music inside in a way I don’t understand why. It’s very colourful, but definitely not sloppy.
When all these elements come together, the result is an album that is very enjoyable to listen to. By far one of the the best albums of the year. You should definitely give it a chance.
9,5/10
