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SAMAEL: Lux Mundi (Album Review)

By Kate Wilcox

Release Date: May 3rd, 2011
Review Date: April 1st, 2011
Record Label: Season Of Mist

My rating:



    Track Listing:
  1. Luxferre
  2. Let My People Be!
  3. Of War
  4. AntiGod
  5. For A Thousand Years
  6. The Shadow of the Sword
  7. In the Deep
  8. Mother Night
  9. Pagan Trance
  10. In Gold we Trust
  11. Soul Invictus
  12. The Truth is Marching On

Samael has always been one of those bands who have pushed the boundaries of black metal to explore new territories that included more of an electronic or symphonic element to their sound. That didn't always sit well even with the most loyal of fans but now it seems that they are bringing back that black metal tradition and showing the world what Samael is truly made of.

"Lux Mundi" has a much more polished sound and pours out with a fluidity that was missing from their previous release, "Above". I think they realized the mistakes that was made in the past and put forth a great effort to make this album shine, so they could keep moving forward. The keyboard still plays a prominent role on these tracks but is there to lead you into Samael's brutality more than anything. Vorph's vocals erupt with a viciousness that meshes well with the guitar work on each track.

"Of War" is one track that stands out to me with its atmospheric keyboards and a sense of ferocity that's only added by Vorph's vocals. "The Shadow of the Sword" rips through with a heavy guitar sound but is rhythmic and mixes clean vocals with low growls giving the track an air of mystery. "Mother Night" is as close you can get to a ballad while still remaining plenty brutal. "Pagan Trance" is mesmerizing with an almost mystical rhythm. Vorph has the capability of putting you into your own personal trance. "Soul Invictus" brings a massive ambience with a menacing symphonic element in the background, pounding drumbeats and heavy dual guitar rhythms.

This is one of Samael's best efforts to the masses yet and will put them back on top as fan favorites once again.

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