Barghest / Thou
split [10-inch; Elder Magick]

I expected to like this limited 10-inch LP split between metal heavyweights Barghest and Thou. I didn’t expect to become obsessed with the damn thing, but that’s what Thou’s repulsive sludge has reduced me to, not to mention Barghest’s respectful updates to b-m. But let’s start with Thou, as I’m a tad more familiar with this outfit through compulsive orders made at the Pesanta Urfolk and Gilead Media sites (they’ve also moonlighted on Robotic Empire, Vinyl Rites, Vendetta, Feast of Tentacles, and Halo of Flies, among others; pretty strong resume). I’ve seen write-ups that favor the Barghest side but I have to go the other way and admit I was blown away by their abusive shit-sludge and how far they shoved it down my willing throat like the barrel of a shotgun. BAM!!!?!?!?! There’s just a touch of boozy Southern swagger to Thou’s strut, and that would be fatal to most bands. These guys transcend all that with their absolute adherence to ultimate heaviness and originality, bringing the perfect blend of bulbous low-end and crispy dungeon riffs to fruition as the vocalist sneers post-Carcass. And I love Carcass. The way the guitars bend at unpredictable times, as rote as it sounds, is a revelation once Thou work themselves into a wicked frenzy, all manner of subtle six-string tricks bending time/space for just a second to help that otherwise-predictable riff ‘POP’ like a pistol. Time for Barghest, and though I gave Thou the honors I’ll admit it’s all equal in the eyes of satan: this outfit, apparently with a new lineup, shreds the LIVING HELL out of black-metal with a dedication you only find in the Ash Borers of the world, to broach a much-hyped peer. The viciousness with which they launch into their attack is next-level even when compared to peers on labels like Psychic Violence (which is tough for me to say, I also order from PV sporadically), the sheer brunt of the braun compensating for the fact that there isn’t much that hasn’t been done before here. But that segue into a stinky bog of sludge? Talk about best of both worlds, Barghest hit ear-speed records and plunge to the depths just as easily, a neat trick that must crush in concert. This might be the first time I’ve reviewed a record THE DAY IT ARRIVED. Yes: I review METAL you pieces of garbage, send it my way and I’ll make a special effort to cover it, particularly if it rips with the malice of Thou and Barghest, two titans demanding ultimate respect in the under-underground.

Links: Elder Magick

Cerberus

Cerberus seeks to document the spate of home recorders and backyard labels pressing limited-run LPs, 7-inches, cassettes, and objet d’art with unique packaging and unknown sound. We love everything about the overlooked or unappreciated. If you feel you fit such a category, email us here.

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