A short Metal quiz in the beginning of this review: which Norwegian cult band did split up despite the name promising to compose music “eternally”? They joined together on stage a while ago in Wacken… you are right of course, I am talking about Immortal, the guys round snarling front man Abbath.
PANYCHIDA seem to accept the musical inheritance of this (half) faded Black Metal band. Eminently the vocals remind me of Abbath; additionally the sometimes stamping, sometimes ice-cold clattering rhythms let the idols shine through without doubt. Of course PANYCHIDA are clever and do not want to be labeled as plagiarism. Their partly quite short compositions are accompanied by a flute from time to time contributing a lot to recognition as well as self-reliance. Fortunately the use of mentioned instrument is not exaggerated resulting in an upgrading and adorning effect. In addition many melodies are present, so that a positive overall view finally lasts. When Drums Of War Will Sound bears its title rightly, in the end a surprising acoustic break cares for acceptable alternation following a real fast song. PANYCHIDA use this tactic of like accidental interspersed breathers anew and augment my benevolence. The noticeable resemblance to Norwegian icons is put into perspective in the course of Paganized. Consequently I attest the will to create something different. Singer GHM is not guilty to be blessed with a nearly analogue voice! ;)
In between PANYCHIDA sound like a heavy rocking dance band and they manage that I shake a leg during Pageant Of The Eternal Ones. Some cheering noises in the background are conductive to start an imaginable party – an egregious piece of music! Concerning good humor the artists do not carry this mood to excess thoughtlessly testifying a keen sense for considered compositions’ structures.
Paganized means 40 minutes of fun – that’s what counts for me! Snappy Black Metal is always welcome – and the Sons Of Northern Darkness do not exist anymore…