Absentia Lunae - In Umbrarum Imperii Gloria (Serpens Caput Productions, 2006)

I must say Absentia Lunae caught me a little unawares there. After being bombarded by the black metal raucous of "Fortis Cadere, Cedere Non Potest", I subconsciously prepared myself for yet another band who exercise in the fine art of black metal tomfoolery where speed precedes the actual essence. Well, I was in for a surprise. Blatantly influenced by the more avant-garde side of black metal as pioneered by bands such as DHG, Ved Buens Ende and Arcturus (although not as near to their musical effulgence), Absentia Lunae attempt to present a more original, even personal manifestation of their artistic endeavours.Variation in both mood and rhythmical dynamics ensure a tumultuous yet emotive output paved on a tight and robust percussion. They employ interesting cadences akin to more classical forms, where surreally melodic guitar passages escalate into faster spurts of frenetic blasts. Of course fast, tremolo-driven passages are not amiss here, since they act as an appropriate release element. Vocals unfortunately do not follow the album's interesting variations and become a burden at moods where unorthodox vocal patterns perhaps would be more appropriate. Jazzy patterns also make their subtle appearance at times, giving the album's progression a more elaborate touch of musicality.

Although the fact is that not a lot of bands are keen on following the same path Absentia Lunae are trotting on, this doesn't necessarily imply that they are the most original of acts. As I said before, I was pleasantly surprised; this is indeed quality stuff, but still I'm not particularly impressed. Not yet, at least, since there is definitely a lot of potential on display here.

The album is pressed on vinyl only and strictly limited to 400 copies.

Contact: http://www.absentialunae.com

(originally written for Chronicles of Chaos - 28/7/2006)