The Norwegian-Italian duo Darvaza hardly needs an introduction anymore. Omega, responsible for all instrumentation, is well known as the mastermind behind Nubivagant and as drummer for Moloch and Liber Null. Wraath, who handles the vocal duties, has long been active as guitarist for Behexen and Ritual Death.
With Darvaza, the two first joined forces back in 2015 — a collaboration that quickly resulted in a series of impressive releases. Since their debut, the duo has released three EPs, continuously refining their distinctive blend of raw intensity and spiritual darkness. Now they return with their second full-length album, where their uncompromising vision of Black Metal comes fully into bloom — relentless, ritualistic, and utterly enthralling.
After a grand, bombastic, and orchestral intro, the album bursts into life with “Holy Blood,” proving that Darvaza have no intention of renouncing the devil or softening their approach. What follows is pure, classic Black Metal — fierce, uncompromising, and unmistakably marked by Omega’s signature touch, a sound he has honed over the years.
We move swiftly through “A Last Prayer in Gethsemane” to “Chaos.Fire.Devotion,” another massive track that channels the grim spirit of the 1990s. As Terratur Possessions pointed out, this is a true studio album — recorded in an actual studio, not in a bedroom — and that professional edge is evident in the depth, clarity, and dynamics of the sound.
One of the standout moments comes with “Slaying Heaven,” a heavy, doomy piece that sees the tempo drop considerably, yet the band’s ferocity remains intact. Even in its slower passages, Darvaza retains its intensity, conjuring a suffocating, ritualistic atmosphere that draws the listener deeper into its blackened vortex.
With this second full-length, Darvaza leave a powerful impression. Their relentless approach, masterful songwriting, and commanding production make this record not only an auditory experience but a visual and spiritual one as well. A release worthy of the flames of the underworld — raw, transcendent, and possessed from start to finish.
We sang into the darkness
And the void sang back
Darkness answers darkness
Darkness answers darkness!
For We are Him!
89/100
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