I admit that this review deals with an older release (once again), but for the 666th time I just say: [self-censorship].
This Dublin-based quintet rehearsed quite some time in order to have their debut sounding as satisfying as possible, and the reaction of the public on this material (the band performed in Ireland, of course, as well as in the United Queendom) did strengthen their intention to go on. …which I am grateful for. Why? Because the result is pretty satisfactory. Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges was recorded live (the organic sound-result is one of the surpluses) at the (for me unknown) Track Mix Studio with Michael Richards, and brings eight songs that clock about forty three minutes. The studio provided quite a nice production-sound, which truly supports the intensity this band had in mind when writing and recording this material.
Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges brings very energetic, rhythmic and melodic Black Metal with both traditional and modernistic elements. And it is not only because of the nice song writing that I am enthusiastic. Also the capability to combine epic melodies with harsh rhythms is of a high quality. Throughout the whole album, great tremolo leads give that little extra to the more-than-just-average compositions. But I have a couple of remarks too. The vocals, for example, aren’t wrong at all; on the contrary, they are of a very powerful kind; but the sore grunting screams might dominate too much, and they might forget to listen attentively to the instrumental part of the game. I also dislike the own-faced identity of the band. It’s not that Aeternum Vale are cheap copycats; I just miss that something extra that is needful lately. Despite having delivered a fine collection of songs, I am not sure this album will strike the currently overcrowded scene (at least outside Ireland and the U.K.). That’s a pity, of course. But you might / must give it a try, I think, for the intentions and ideas are convincing. I am sure that, if these guys search for, and create, a more self-identifying approach, that their next effort will be a hit.