Let’s face it, Italy is not really known for its black metal bands. In fact, I can’t really name one. GRIM MONOLITH is about to change all that. The origin of this three piece necro black metal outfit came into existence in 2003. With bassist/vocalist Rog leading the pack, they released their self titled demo in 2007. Mooncrowned is their second effort, and it is beyond me why these guys are not signed to a label yet.

Onto the contents of Mooncrowned: The first song entitled Touched By The Beauty Of The Night, gives us a clue just what we are in for. The recording is totally necro. GRIM MONOLITH is raw old school black metal at its best. Sounding as if it were recorded in a crypt under the full moon. This band totally draws the essence of grim necro black metal. With Rog’s high pitched screeched black metal vocals setting the tone of torment. They are quite well pronounced and the lyrics are all in English. The guitar style of Urgud takes inspiration from black metal of the past, with fast classic picked style; it carries the music to a place of utter darkness. The drums of Snagalv are traditionally old school style. The timing in a song can go from fast to mid paced and back again. Song five Sculpting Eternity, stands out with a fierce riff like a black metal anthem. One of the best songs on here would definitely be Glory And Wonder, starting off with a rather beautifully crafted melodic riff which flows throughout the song giving a strange otherworldly vibe. Another stand out song is The Pulse of The Woods, with its sinister ultra grim riffing and the demonic growls of Rog. Overall GRIM MONOLITH have hit the nail on the head when it comes to being one of the grimmest black metal bands to come out of recent years. You can’t get anymore old school than this. Mooncrowned could quite be their crowning glory. I hope these guys get a deal soon because GRIM MONOLITH truly needs to be heard.