Every full-length album release from an old and historic band is an event in itself—let alone when we’re talking about a group that helped shape, influence, and define the characteristics of black metal, while gaining thousands of fans as well as critics worldwide. “Liturgy of Death” by the legendary Mayhem arrived early on to confirm expectations, as the first singles hinted at a particularly powerful record. And indeed, this is a relentless album. The record is defined by a dark yet atmospheric sense of maturity, featuring complex song structures and abyssal guitars that offer the listener a complete black metal experience. A key element is the performance of Attila Csihar, who moves across all the signature traits that have given Mayhem their theatrical identity—from whispers and “decayed” spoken passages to violent outbursts and piercing screams. The only possible drawback is that, personally, I would have preferred the vocals to be more upfront in the mix, as in certain moments—both in terms of frequency and volume—they get lost within the overall sound. Nevertheless, the album’s production is at a very high level, with a clear sound and a particularly full-bodied guitar tone. With tracks like “Funeral of Existence”, “Weep For Nothing” and “Realm of Endless Misery”, Mayhem don’t simply deliver another album bearing their name, but a work that adds weight to their already heavy legacy. They prove that, with the extreme sound they themselves helped shape at the core, they continue to mature and evolve.
♦ 9,5/10
Christos Kosmidis
