siLLy puPPy
Many bands have demos that suck and only mature once they release albums. With Nokturnal Mortem I actually like the two demos better than most of the albums. This one is my favorite of any release by the band so far.
Although they are basically building on the style invented by Dimmu Borgir on FOR ALL TID, I think they managed to take this sound and perfect it. What works for me with this album is that by using simple Slovak folk melodies on the keyboards, they build through variations to a satisfying black metal fury. Unlike the songs that are on the follow-up and first official full album, GOAT HORNS, these songs seem like the right length never outstaying their welcome. The mix works for me as well as it is different than most black metal. It is eerie and actually fits quite well with the concept and artwork. Even the strange guitarless synth-and-drum interlude “The Grief Of Oriana” seems to fit in.
If you are put off by many of the later NM releases, which for me are very hit and miss, then give this demo (at almost an hour long it could be considered a proper album release) a try. You might find that you do enjoy an NM release from beginning to end. Originally I was gonna give this 4.5 stars but after listening to it again a couple more times, I think this is a perfect album.