An almost 20 minutes running one-track mini CD marks the new sign of life of German black metal supremacy known as FUNERAL PROCESSION, a band that likes to wrap themselves with mystery. There is actually not that much to learn about this outfit and it’s up to the writer’s fantasy to oracle with what’s left of information.
The critically acclaimed self-titled debut record in 2006 was preceded by a one-track mini CD too, so I assume, that this instruction to let the wine flow like water is supposed to bring the willing listener in the right mood for the highly anticipated sophomore. And it works very exquisite! With a glass of aforesaid drink in hands, one excellently can listen and intoxicate itself.
The Red Vine Litanies is a raving, black metallic production in three acts, whereas the first one emerges as the raw, wild and primary one, nastily produced, but not in an intentional way. It follows a short interlude with a sacral choir, bridging to the third act, where cold and furious black metal reigns again. Distinct guitar work gets revealed and a remarkable riff at the end, that leads over to the choir again, under its chant the last curtain falls.
The Red Vine Litanies is an excellent foretaste of what still has to come. Expectations are high but I think FUNERAL PROCESSION won’t have any problems to match them.