GOD DETHRONED: Illuminati (DEATH METAL): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Despite some ups and downs, God Dethroned is holding its own. The Dutch band that leads an exemplary career with ten albums carved out of a warlike and epic black death is back with "Illuminati". In the process of making the album Mike Ferguson left the band, replaced by Dave Meester who finished the guitar parts. "Illuminati" is a concept album about freemasonry and the work of Aleister Crowley. With a cover illustrating the theme wonderfully, it can be enjoyed like watching a movie. It gives an epic and homogeneous record with fierce moments but also with calmer and catchy moments.

When the band get their claws out, it's done with a mix of black and death full of emphasis with an obvious writing intelligence. 'Illuminati', 'Broken Halo' as well as 'Spirit Of Beelzebub', 'Satan Spawn' and 'Blood Moon Eclispe' are intense moments. On vocals, Sattler impresses, screams angrily in a pure black spirit but also excels in growl. His variety of tones accompanies a furious rhythmic style that crush everything in its path, with molten riffs and a keyboard that is very present to bring the epic side.

Alongside these moments tinged with hatred, there are lulls which give all its strength to the record. God Dethroned signs catchy tracks that change from his classical repertoire. 'Book Of Lies' is a melodic black pearl with a calmer and more calm voice. 'Gabriel' with its gothic tinge and is the highlight of the album: it evokes the recent Behemoth with a touch of Paradise Lost. Between its obvious refrain and its catchy melodies, it is a pure hit. Finally, 'Eye Of Horus' is the perfect mix; powerful and catchy, it also exudes a certain mysticism with backing vocals, an efficient alternation of vocals and an excellent break.

With 'Illuminati', God Dethroned shows an Olympic shape. The Dutch band signs a rich and intelligent opus that sees him excel in his art but also in a different repertoire with a rare class. - Official website

GOD DETHRONED

ILLUMINATI

METAL BLADE RECORDS

DEATH METAL