If you are a reader of this site you know that I normally prefer to highlight forgotten albums from the past that didn’t get the attention they deserved or that were unfairly panned (in my opinion at least). Today however we have the new album from Antoine Scholtes, the man behind this incredible Atmospheric/Melodic Black Metal band better known as Inherits the Void. I became a big fan of his work on his sophomore release “The Impending Fall of Stars” which ended up on a LOT of Best Of End Of Year lists for 2023, mine included. Well, here we are a short 15 months later with a new release and as much as I loved “Impending Fall of Stars” this new one feels like a whole other level. Simply put, it is absolutely fantastic. So enough of this intro, lets get to the review.
Inherits the Void’s latest album, *Scars of Yesteryears*, is a fantastic blend of Melodic and Atmospheric Black Metal that pushes the boundaries of the genre while still giving a nod to its roots. From the opening track, the listener is thrown into a world of atmospheric soundscapes and aggressive riffs that set the tone for the entire album. This man’s ability to balance melody and intensity is pitch perfect, creating a dynamic listening experience that keeps you engaged for the entirety of the 43 minute runtime of the album.
One of the standout features of “Scars of Yesteryears” is its lyrical depth which is something I normally don’t focus on but here it was hard not to. The album explores themes of loss, reflection, and the passage of time, connecting with the listener on a personal level. Each song feels like a chapter in a larger story, with poignant lyrics that are both introspective as well as universal. The emotional weight of the lyrics is enhanced by the powerful vocal delivery, which has some of the best ferocious growls you will find in the realm of the harsh vocal style.
Musically, the album is a showcase of technical proficiency and creative composition. The guitar work is particularly impressive, with intricate solos and harmonies that add layers of complexity to the songs. The rhythm section provides a solid foundation, with incredibly tight drumming and bass lines that drive the music forward. The production quality is top-notch, allowing each instrument to shine without overpowering the others. This attention to detail is incredibly evident and from a listeners persepective, greatly appreciated.
“Scars of Yesteryears” also demonstrates Antoine’s willingness to experiment and evolve. There are moments of unexpected beauty, such as the addition of orchestral elements and ambient interludes, which add depth and variety to the album. These touches of experimentation showcase that he is not afraid to step outside the confines of the genre and explore new areas. This experimentation keeps the album fresh and exciting, even for seasoned fans of Black Metal.
Overall, Inherits the Void has delivered a masterful album with “Scars of Yesteryears”. It is a testament to his growth as a musician and his dedication to the craft. The album is both a journey through the darker aspects of human experience and a celebration of musical in general. I know that is pretty strange to say about a Black Metal album but for fans of the genre (hell, even if you aren’t a fan of the genre, give it a chance), “Scars of Yesteryears” is a must-listen. I can’t recommend this highly enough.
9.5/10
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