Illusive key sees the light with their first release, Consume us. On what I can find this is the first release of this entity and there is something that sparks my interest. Is it the name of the band or the title, or is it the art? I cannot put my finger on it, but am intrigued!
They consist of three members: on the guitar and vocals is MK (known from Häxenzijrkell), CSQN (from Trogne) on the drums and Déhà on the bass, synths & additional guitars. MK gets some help with additional vocals by CVB (Wolvennest, Cult of Erinyes) and H (Silver knife, Oerheks). Those are some great names involved in this new band. Can they keep the high quality their other bands are known for? Let’s find out.
With just four tracks they manage to reach over 31 minutes in length. That brings long tracks and a great path towards creating atmosphere, but can they succeed in that?
Well to be short, yes they can. The overall soundscape resembles a dark pit of echoes. The reverb has found its way in this mix, but not feeling out of place. The clarity of the mix is a bit on the lesser side but it keeps the vibe the band tries to get across. The instruments are clear enough to create a high quality soundscape, but yet balance on the line of insanity.
The riffs are leading while the drums and bass compliments the greater feeling of darkness. The vocals almost have a haunting presence. It is a very dark piece of art but yet retains the cold essence of black metal and the feeling of despair.
What more is to be said? This is a heavy EP to endure, it weighs down on the soul but keeps lingering forward. During the long tracks they keep the listener engaged and during every second they manage to draw you closer to the edge…
For a first EP this is a great release, the echoes of insanity are wailing through my mind and I am looking forward to more work from them. I recall some hints of Sun Worship and Misþyrming. They do not underperform these names in my opinion! It is a great first release! The only downside to be named is the duration, a full length will be a must as next release.
With Amor Fati as the label the picture is complete. It will release this great Album on CD and vinyl on the 8th of October this year.
90/100
Daan Bleumink
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