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Watain - "Lawless Darkness" (CD)

Watain - "Lawless Darkness" CD cover image

"Lawless Darkness" track listing:

1. Death's Cold Dark
2. Malfeitor
3. Reaping Death
4. Four Thrones
5. Wolves Curse
6. Lawless Darkness
7. Total Funeral
8. Hymn to Qayin
9. Kiss of Death
10. Waters of Ain

Reviewed by on July 16, 2010

"'Lawless Darkness' is an epic piece of brutality and darkness. "

So when I got this album, I was forewarned by several people that I would need a flashlight and crucifix while listening to it. Of course, I laughed it off and told them I was going to use their warnings in my review. But seriously, I think something did cross over, because I haven’t been feeling the same since I’ve listened to it and I’ve been listening to it non-stop. Holy shit, something fucking wicked this way comes!

“Lawless Darkness” is an epic piece of brutality and darkness. Long awaited in anticipation by the masses, this album will not disappoint by any means. “Reaping Death” is by far one of my favorite tracks. It’s hard, fast, and brutal. This is how it’s done. Watain has a very direct but passionate approach to their music that metal fans across the board can appreciate.

“Kiss of Death” has a catchy groove with great guitar riffs, but with Erik’s vocals still maintains its high level of ferocity. This particular track reminds me of old Kreator or Death. I can’t exactly put my finger on it, but that particular guitar work gives off that old 80's thrash or death metal vibe. “Total Funeral” is bursting out with rage and anger and the whole track is just completely raw.

Erik’s vocals are phenomenal and I am blown away by the brilliance of Forsberg and Set Teitan. Are you all fans of “Sworn to the Dark”? Watain takes it even further with “Lawless Darkness.” A must-have for your collection!

Highs: Very passionate black metal.

Lows: Nothing, in my opinion.

Bottom line: Watain takes it even further from "Sworn to the Dark" on "Lawless Darkness."

Rated 4.5 out of 5 skulls
4.5 out of 5 skulls


Key
Rating Description
Rated 5 out of 5 skulls Perfection. (No discernable flaws; one of the reviewer's all-time favorites)
Rated 4.5 out of 5 skulls Near Perfection. (An instant classic with some minor imperfections)
Rated 4 out of 5 skulls Excellent. (An excellent effort worth picking up)
Rated 3.5 out of 5 skulls Good. (A good effort, worth checking out or picking up)
Rated 3 out of 5 skulls Decent. (A decent effort worth checking out if the style fits your tastes)
Rated 2.5 out of 5 skulls Average. (Nothing special; worth checking out if the style fits your taste)
Rated 2 out of 5 skulls Fair. (There is better metal out there)
< 2 skulls Pretty Bad. (Don't bother)