Review: ABSU – “Absu”

Absu – “Absu” [Candlelight]
released March 10, 2009 by Candlelight

The Dallas, Texas ‘mythological occult metal’ reemerges after an eight year hiatus to release their sixth album. Helmed by drummer/vocalist Proscriptor McGovern, a completely new lineup was recruited for this recording. Most sonically similar to black metal–with its grandiosity, rasped vocals, and fast tremolo picking–we also get elements of thrash, and dips into folk rhythms. Unlike the last three albums which focused on Celtic lore, this latest effort delves further into Sumerian history and magic. Several guest musicians, including Blasphemer (Mayhem, Ava Inferi), Nornagest (Enthroned), Mindwalker (The Firstborn), and Vorskaath (Zemial). Rightfully eponymous, this album represents a vibrant rebirth of one of America’s finest exports. 13 is an instrumental outro.

A Best of 2009 pick!

FCC OK
Try 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10

01. Between the Absu of Eridu & Erech
02. Night Fire Canonization
03. Amy
04. Nunbarshegunu
05. 13 Globes
06. …of the Dead Who Never Rest in Their Tombs Are the Attendance of Familiar Spirits Including: A) Diversified Signs Inscribed; B) Our Earth of Black; C) Voor
07. Magic(k) Square Cipher
08. In the Name of Auebothiabathabaithobeuee
09. Girra’s Temple
10. Those of the Void Will Re-Enter
11. Sceptre Command
12. Ye Uttuku Spells
13. Twix Yesterday, the Day & the Morrow

Rating:  

Check out my interview with Proscriptor HERE

~ Matt Longo