Anguis Dei (Japan): “Angeist”

I have reviewed bands from all the continents on these pages, but this is the first time I have written about a Japanese band. Anguis Dei, formed in 2014, after a demo and an EP, has recently released their first full-length Angeist, a true masterpiece of symphonic black metal. It isn't easy to precisely describe this album, perhaps because it surpasses all imagination, but the basis is essentially symphonic orchestral black metal. Some arrangements are vaguely reminiscent of Arcturus, whereas sometimes the sound is reminiscent of Dimmu Borgir and Dark Fortress, but the truth is that their sound is unique, and there is no equal. One may also say that the Japanese guys blend different styles, such as symphonic, melodic, and traditional black metal on a neoclassical basis, while the tones vary from brutal to grotesque. The musicians are obviously top-notch, but I was practically blown away by the performance of the vocalist who can sing, scream and growl. I don't see any weak sides, also because there is a lot of dynamism in the songs: Angeist is original, well played, varied, well produced. The main themes revolve around black magick and Satanism, and the whole album is evil as hell. In short, Angeist is a masterpiece and can safely enter the list of the best albums in 2021 already now.
 
Notes:
Angeist was released on January 31, 2021 via Drakkar Productions as digital release, CD limited to 500 copies, vinyl limited to 300 copies.
 
Personnel:
Adeptus Summum Algor: Drums
Adeptus Juno: Guitars, Keyboards
Adeptus U.:È.:Œ .: : Vocals
Adeptus Hakuja: Bass
 
Text by Herjann
herjann@unholyblackmetal.com