Description

Ancient Rites has been around as a band since 1988 and are one of the few black metal acts to come from Belgium.Not only were they important for black metal in their own country they were also pioneers of the underground black metal scene, being the first foreign black metal band to tour clubs in Portugal and Italy. Their sound has changed from death metal with black metal influences to a more modern symphonic neoclassical black/thrash. The music on Dim Carcosa is grandiose and majestic while remaining very aggressive. Dim Carcosa has a very large, full sound and reeks of professionalism. The guitars are the most prominent instrument, but the keys are also very forward in the mix, a piano as well as an orchestra is also utilized. The guitars have a speed metal quality to them as well as a heavy neoclassical influence and remind me of a blend of Children of Bodom and Blind Guardian. The vocals are a mix of clean, Viking metal style singing and black metal screams. Ancient Rites seem to have become faster and more orchestral on this recording, which I feel is really a step in the right direction. If you are looking for a very professionally done release that conveys a lot of emotion and just plain old jams, get this one. Those who like symphonic black metal should really enjoy this.

Track list:
1. The Return
2. Exile (Les Litanies De Satan)
3. Victory Or Valhalla (Last Man Standing)
4. And The Horns Called For War
5. North Sea
6. Götterdämmerung (Twilight Of The Gods)
7. (Ode To Ancient) Europa
8. Remembrance
9. Lindisfarne (Anno 793)
10. On Golden Fields (De Leeuwen Dansen)
11. Dim Carcosa