It took a while, but after a period of silence and anticipation, the long-awaited debut album by Necromantic Worship is finally here. Featuring seven spellbinding tracks and a particularly successful Tiamat cover, this full-length serves as a powerful and authentic homage to a long-lost era of black metal. From the very first note, it becomes clear where this band’s roots lie — their influences are not hidden but proudly and deliberately brought to light (or rather: to moonlight), with a keen sense of detail and conviction.
Already on the first listen, I was instantly transported back to the early ’90s, and more specifically, to the blazing Hellenic black metal scene. The spirit of Necromantia is unmistakably present throughout the album — not merely as a surface-level reference, but as a deeply rooted source of inspiration. It’s evident in the entrancing rhythmic structures, the sometimes ritualistic composition, the mysterious and esoteric atmosphere that permeates every moment, and even in the instrumentation itself (with the prominently featured bass taking center stage — a clear nod to Baron Blood and The Magus).
The songwriting reflects a deep respect for tradition, yet it never slips into mere nostalgia. There’s a sense of true devotion here — a fire that doesn’t aim to copy, but to relive and reawaken something ancient. The production is raw, yet clear enough to let every detail breathe, perfectly complementing the arcane atmosphere that defines the best of this genre.
The Tiamat cover, taken from their pre-gothic era, is an absolute highlight. Not only is the track choice excellent, but the execution is both reverent and imaginative. The band stays true to the original, while injecting it with their own occult spirit, allowing it to seamlessly blend in with the rest of the record — a natural, even necessary addition.
After the atmospheric, ritualistic intro “Sacrificial Carnage”, the album truly erupts with “The Tempering of Everos”. Here, the Greek influence is fully embraced: mystical, shadowy, and foreboding. Whispered vocals reminiscent of Beherit creep through the mix like a demonic invocation from another realm. Keyboards are lavishly used, but in the best way possible — they contribute to a dense, hermetic atmosphere that only strengthens the song’s foundation.
“Into the Haunted Crypt” plunges us even deeper into the abyss. Things slow down and get darker, with thunderous, hammering basslines dictating the pace like a heartbeat in a crypt. Guitars are present, but play more of a supporting role — mainly stepping forward for solos — while the bass remains the true rhythmic backbone. This isn’t guitar-driven black metal; it’s music that pulses from the gut, thriving on vibration more than riffage. The Necromantia influence here is unmistakable.
Their take on “Malicious Paradise” (from Tiamat’s legendary Sumerian Cry) is another standout moment. Necromantic Worship pays tribute to the original without descending into sterile reproduction. Instead, they channel their own haunting atmosphere into the track, making it feel fully integrated with the album as a whole.
A slightly unexpected turn comes with “Ancient Lunar Mysteries” — a track that, while somewhat “lighter” in tone, still remains firmly rooted in the occult. Synths take center stage once more: cathedral organs, choral layers, and ambient textures create a liturgical ambience. Meanwhile, the bass continues its distinctive Necromantia-like patterns, resulting in a hypnotic and immersive experience. It’s one of the album’s strongest moments — atmospheric, captivating, and ritualistic.
Necromantic Worship was well worth the wait. With this debut, the band fully reveals their sound, and it will undoubtedly be appreciated by many veteran black metal fanatics. The influences are unmistakable and, at times, laid on thick — but that’s exactly what gives this album its charm.
90/100
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