Only Satanic Black Metal is True Black Metal. Contentious, but in many respects wholly accurate. The blueprint for Black Metal was created long ago, first by Venom, Bathory, Hellhammer and Von, among others. And each of these artists built their sonic, visual and atmospheric creations around a core soul emersion in Satan, not simply to shock but as a statement of belief and intent.
The late 1980s and early 90s, of course, saw the Infernal Black Flame infuse more and more bands, beginning with Darkthrone and, arguably, Mayhem, then Carpathian Forest, Marduk, Urgehal and thus the blueprint expanded and grew. Hugely and globally.
Canadians Nocturnal Departure pay deep homage to what they see as the traditions of Satanic Black Metal, of that there can be no doubt. But since forming in Manitoba nine years ago, they have carefully crafted their sound around that original blueprint rather than making any crude and stupidly pointless attempt to reproduce it parrot fashion. The last thing the Black Metal world needs is tribute band culture entering our domain. I recommend instant retribution for anyone who dares even attempt that.
No, Nocturnal Departure have successfully carved out their own Ritual Temple space and, on releases like 2019’s debut, Cathartic Black Rituals, have very effectively developed into a potent international act with a reputation for seriousness and high-intensity cult art. As female bassist Illartha noted in a recent interview, Black Metal means turning into oneself’s most abyssal darkness and relishing that ugliness. It is an expression of raw emotion .. of anger towards religious sects or humanity. Black Metal is a means to reclaim power and strength in oneself. You can also add and create Satanic Black Metal art that remains True to its past masters while deepening the intensity.
New release Spiritual Release, which came out in May on Hellsheadbangers, is another outstanding example of how Nocturnal Departure captures the vibe of the original blueprint and stealthily evolves. The production sound is full rather than archetypally low-fi, and Illatha’s bass work drives the highly aggressive black sound as much as any other instrument.
Spiritual Release is relentless with tracks like Chthonic Upheaval, Malefic Requiem and particularly Deathcraft Majesty, really exemplifying the band’s approach. Newer members Folterer (guitars) and Hexzul (drums) have added additional creative experience to the lineup, with immediate effect.
The result is a progression in sound from the previous album Clandestine Theurgy, into a fuller, even more purposeful sound that is razor sharp and delivers the sonic intent with the intensity of a Ritual blade. The riffs, essential to the hypnotic experience the band’s sound exudes, are perhaps not as consistently mesmeric as they are on previous releases, but in a live setting, they will no doubt come fully into their own. Think cavernous underground temple lit with flame, and you will get the picture.
Spiritual Release is a significant leap forward in intensity and ritual energy that will no doubt translate extremely effectively to the grim and bleak setting of the live experience.
Another very good release from Nocturnal Departure that remains totally True to the Black Flames of Satan, while also a strong indication of even greater things to come.
In truth lies honesty, in honesty lies success on life’s path.
https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Nocturnal_Departure/3540451433