Once again, we encounter a project wrapped in mystery. Beyond a few scattered notes on the ever-reliable Metal Encyclopaedia, there is little to be uncovered. It seems likely that the entity calling itself “Spiritual Punishment of the Self” intends to keep things that way.
Two years ago, the debut tape appeared through the Polish label Victim of Fate—a lavish cassette edition, adorned with various extras. The new EP, however, has surfaced solely in digital form, available exclusively on Bandcamp for the time being.
The rawness of the debut is still very much present, yet this new release shows a clear shift toward a more atmospheric direction. The doomy “Manifesting With Life, You Revealed Yourself” stands out in particular. Despite its dragging tempo and repetitive riffs, the track manages to hold the listener in a firm grip, unfolding like a hypnotic maelstrom that leaves a lasting mark. It’s this tension between crushing heaviness and subtle layering that elevates the music to the next level.
The second track leans more distinctly into Black Metal territory. “Cilice Chains Hold My Flesh, My Instrument Weeps” captivates with its aggression and dynamic tempo shifts, adding a sharper edge to the release. Both compositions are preceded by “Works of Flesh”(Parts I and II), dungeon synth–styled introductions of just under three minutes each, which set an ominous, immersive atmosphere before the full weight of the music is unleashed.
All in all, this is a compelling release that, unfortunately, has not yet been given a physical format. For those eager to experience it now, the material can be found on Bandcamp or YouTube.
80/100
Penance in Blood:
Bandcamp