Metal Underground.com

The first demo from NOLA (New Orleans) black metallers Serpentis is a good showcase of the band’s love for traditional black metal from influences like Burzum with hints of hard rock and blues.

Guitarists Tormentor and Impurator do great traditional black metal riffing, quickly strumming their guitars to the melody of each song. The work in the breakdown of “Defiance Induced Chaos” was very powerful and aggressive. At the end of “Faithless Eternal Night,” Tormentor plays a great riff, but it’s hard to hear being overshadowed by the other instruments. It would be great to see the guitar brought out and embellished more.

Vocalist Usurper growls furiously throughout the demo. A good example of his prowess is evident in the more aggressive song “Impact of the Infected Son.” Although he doesn’t sing as powerfully as he can in the live shows, Usurper has a promising talent. Drummer Will Gray is always impressive and does not disappoint here either. From traditional black metal drumming on “Faithless Eternal Night” to marching drums on “Defiance Induced Chaos,” Will can play any style very well. I especially liked his beats in the almost bluesy “Serpent of the Darkest Flame.”

“Left Hand Path” is a great first effort from a band that is determined to become as infamous as their hero Varg Vikerenes; without the murder, of course.