ARBOR - EVENTIDE PRIMITIVISM
The relatively new American label Blood and Crescent Productions has made quite the impact with its handful of projects spearheaded by an individual that goes by Taurus and his minimalist approach to all things black metal from all aspects within the sound, aesthetics, and even the presentation of their physical media. With Arbor's second full-length now upon us we get another healthy dose of what made black metal so mysterious and alluring long before it became fun and fashionable as it is now.
A storm is inbound as a dirgey medieval ambient moment briefly introduces us to "Arise!... As Dreams Brood Cold" before indeed a freezing melodic tremolo-burst assaults us with "The Shroud of Frost". Discerning ears will definitely catch nods to the Finnish black metal stronghold of Northern Heritage with "Blood Rage Divine", balancing just the right amount of raw speed and melody in a furious outburst. "Nocturne's Odium" certainly pays homage to the legacy of legendary act Judas Iscariot and their monumental contribution to the American scene, one listen and you too will be convinced by how flattering this noble display is. "A Thirst For Night's Blood" continue's more of what gave Arbor its reputation from the multiple demos that came out before any full-lengths; dark, emotional, and obsidian blazing fast black metal and with a leitmotif style of delivery in the riff department. Finally with the longest track to end the opus that is "The Reign of Night" Taurus again show us why he is a master of composition as he singlehandedly can make all instruments work in perfect harmony to construct the diabolical message he wants to convey in a fast, morose, and stunning way along with grim vocals that invoke the most ancient ways of black metal when it was very much an unknown forbidden fruit.
So far every release from this lofty label has not only been incredible but also highly sought after in any physical format released by those who still collect, and within the underground we know that this is still a large part of the culture and camraderie that binds us together. And once again Arbor has given us a very compelling piece of traditionally orthodox black metal brilliance to stake a claim in today's scene and make black metal as dark and bleak as it forever shall be!
9/10
