Enthroned- Tetra Karcist

Artist: Enthroned
Album: Tetra Karcist
Label: Napalm Records 

"Tetra Karcist" is the seventh full length from the Belgium black metal band Enthroned and it has been received with mixed emotions by many. This is the first album without frontman and founding member, Sabathan. He may be missed by some, but musically Enthroned has not suffered from it in my opinion. Longtime member Nornagest has taken over on vocals with Sabathan's departure and he really does an excellent job. His vocals are more varied than Sabathan's, going from a raspy vocal delivery to almost death metal growls throughout the album. He performs both styles well and with Phorgath's backing vocals, the growls sound like they come from the depths of hell. Musically, "Tetra Karcist" is as intense to me as many of their older releases. Nguaroth & Nornagest's guitar riffs are razor sharp and they play as good at warp speed as they do on some of the slower parts. You can't hear too much of Phorgath's bass playing, but Alsvid's drumming is impeccable and the way they were mixed in make them loud and really noticeable without being too overbearing. Alsvid only returned to do session drums on the album and has since been replaced by new permanent drummer Ahephaim. One interesting thing presented here is the use of chants on some of the tracks. At first I thought they were out of place but after several listens I think they work perfectly. There's a limited edition release of "Tetra Karcist" as well which includes two bonus tracks with MkM from Antaeus doing guest vocals. I must say that this is definitely one of my favorite new albums. Really worth taking a listen to!