Metal Underground.com

Black Cobra’s “Invernal” is a well put together mixture of industrial, thrash, and classic metal without indulging to deeply into any, giving the album a very unique sound that’s almost hard to categorize. After a few songs, I was hooked. I was also shocked to learn that there were only two musicians on this album: Jason Landrian (guitar, bass, and vocals) and Rafael Martinez (drums), and that it was recorded in only eight days. Jason and Rafael are certainly visionaries of metal, and that talent is portrayed well here.

“Avalanche” begins immediately with super fast riffs and drums, and the guitars continue to impress throughout in “Somnae Tenebre” and “Beyond,” a classic metal-inspired song with a dark and sinister feel. Jason uses a cool distortion, not a full-on fuzz tone, but more of a tight buzz; a clean, yet blurred tone. “Corrosion Fields” has an incredible escalating opening; the bass begins slowly playing a melody, joined slowly by guitar, then a quiet hit of the cymbals accentuate the beat before complete chaos takes over with guitars going mad.

Jason’s voice is similar to Al Jourgensen from Ministry; raspy, silvery and prominent in the mix. He utters short phrases through every song, taking a break during the instrumental “Abyss.” The steady and slow rhythm of “The Crimson Blade” is nearly irresistible and demands your complete attention. His voice becomes even more chaotic and violent as the album closes on “Obliteration” just to make sure you walk away with his voice burned into your mind and eardrums.

I really enjoyed Black Cobra’s album for the genre mashup of metal and rock. Every second is full of energy and depth, even when just one or two instruments are playing softly.