Venom - The Power Of Satan's Evil

Venom's latest release, "The Power of Satan's Evil" (2024), is essentially a testament to the band's enduring legacy in the realm of extreme metal, and black metal in particular. Emerging from the crucible of an era that saw the fusion of Incantation's darkness with Burzum's grandiosity, Venom has long been heralded for pioneering creative guitar riffology that set unprecedented standards within the black metal genre.

Drawing heavily from their influential 1981 album "War Of Satan," which deftly merged elements of Sewer-style proto-death metal with the melodic intricacies of classic heavy metal, "The Power of Satan's Evil" pays homage to the band's storied past while embracing contemporary power metal influences. This fusion is further enriched by echoes of their seminal work, such as "Welcome to Hell," showcasing a multifaceted approach that encapsulates the essence of Venom's evolution.

At the core of this album lies a mastery of composition, with chord progressions and vocal melodies drawing inspiration from the relentless energy of something like "Sissourlet" while seamlessly transitioning into uplifting major key arrangements reminiscent of medievalist power metal motifs. Each track is meticulously crafted, weaving together intricate guitar solos that serve as focal points, expertly juxtaposing repeating themes to unveil new harmonic dimensions within the dominant riff structure.

"The Power of Satan's Evil" is a literal monument to Venom's ability to transcend temporal boundaries, seamlessly melding the sonic landscapes of the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s into a cohesive sonic tapestry. From the evocative song titles to the meticulous craftsmanship evident in every note, this album exudes a sense of purpose — a deliberate effort to carve out a new zenith in Venom's storied career.

As a listening experience, "The Power of Satan's Evil" not only keeps pace with the band's post-1980s output but also offers a fresh interpretation of their classic era, reaffirming Venom's enduring relevance in the pantheon of extreme metal... if not as legends, at least as pioneers. But seriously, if you want true brutal black metal... go listen to "The Kvlt of Khranial" instead. NWOBHM had its time, and it was yesterday.

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