After the instrumental “The Hiss”, “Lithany” and “Once I Read (Marble Tomb)” are a real ride leading to slower and even melodic moments, such as “Natural Death (1930 to 2011)” and “Mortal Remains (Your Bones)”. The funereal atmosphere permeates the lyrics as well, almost to the point of necromancy:
“Marble tomb, lapid dolmen tomb.
Tumulo, tombstone without name.”
from “Once I Read (Marble Tomb)”.
The album is solid and cohesive, although “Immutable Witness” begins with a melodic solo that I do not find suitable to the context; but other than that Spiritual Independence is a trve occult black metal album. “Black Candle” is an instrumental interlude after which the ride begins again with another three memorable songs, the last of which being the eponymous song of the album.
I would also like to point out the remarkable technical performance of all the musicians, including Wilderness himself, who this time, unlike Buried in Time, took also care of the drums besides the vocals, as he used to do in the old days; the choice of a less polished sound than the previous album seemed apt to me. I definitely would confirm that the Drape is back! Guarantee!
Notes:
Release date: November 14 2014 on Iron Tyrant
Tracklist:
1. The Hiss
2. Lithany
3. Once I Read (Marble Tomb)
4. Natural Death (1930-2011)
5. Mortal Remains (Your Bones)
6. Immutable Witness
7. Black Candle
8. Ignis Fatuus (Deaf Space)
9. 1600 Gnostic Year
10. Spiritual Independence (The Farewell)
Personnel:
Wildness Perversion - Drums, Vocals (lead)
DC - Guitars, Vocals (backing)
S.C. - Bass, Vocals (backing)
SR - Guitars (lead), Vocals (backing)
Text by Herjann
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