After an attentive listening of Rotting Christ’s latest release “Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy” nobody will ever doubt the intense talent of this prolific Greek band. The astonishingly creative songwriting and the evidently flawless musicianship showcased on this album makes each and every song a memorable spiritual visionary journey. The palpable connection to various ancient myths and folklore renders the lyrics and the music style even more interesting.
“In Yumen-Xibalba” will blow you away with its darkly majestic energy and the gloomiest chanting delivered in true pagan fashion. It seems impossible to find adequate adjectives to fully describe the creepy wall of sound created by the irresistible guitar work or the intense galloping rhythm that leaves you feverish and breathless. In terms of music style, this feels like a tribute to Celtic Frost with the addition of an overdose modern black metal. This main musical core is consistently followed throughout the album, yet it is interpreted and enhanced in multiple manners.
You might not be able to remember the title “P’unchaw Kachun – Tuta Kachun” but you will not forget the enchanting mix of dynamic breathtaking drumming and melodic lead guitar riffs. Obviously, the omnipresent chants enhance the gloomy atmosphere and add a cruel epic battle vibe.
“Grandis Spiritus Diavolos” has a surprisingly catchy blackened rock style filled with layers of ravenous guitar riffs built around an operatic choir. The Gregorian style chant crafts a mystical atmosphere that effectively flows into a highly melodic guitar solo.
The same mystical atmosphere becomes dramatic and acquires a blasphemous feeling on “Kataton Demona Eaftou”. The main musical core involves an accurate fusion of arduous black metal and catchy rock enriched by furious raspy vocals and an energizing melodic guitar solo. The ex novo touch of creativity is provided by an epic style layer of bagpipes.
“Cine Iubeste Si Lasa” is an intoxicating magnum opus that proposes a hallucinating interpretation of a Romanian folk classic. I could listen to this track all day long and still crave for it as under a spell. Classical dramatic piano harmonics embrace the majestic lyrical female chant reminiscent of arcane pagan hymns. The minimalist, yet powerful, vocal duet is tragically addictive and the operatic choir emphasizes the gothic aspect of the song.
“Iwa Woodoo” is an incendiary guitar driven straight forward track with loads of catchy riffs and powerful growls. There is a very effective slower melodic breakdown that shines for a brilliant captivating guitar solo and the return of the ominous Gregorian chanting.
“666” is the darkest lullaby bringer of visionary nightmarish slumbers. The first part of the song revolves around a cathartic atmosphere with obsessive riffs stripped of drumming and fury. The vocals deliver a highly dramatic chant full of grief and despair that naturally evolves into a grandiose spiritual hymn surrounded by a blast of frenetic blackened rock with super tight magnificent guitar riffing.
With “Kata Ton Daimona Eaytoy” Rotting Christ delivers a serious masterpiece filled of grim emotions and outstanding musical qualities. Regardless of personal musical taste, anyone interested in good music will inevitably fall in love with such perfect album.