What "Laguz" does better than anything is represent the Ancient Rites tribe in a comprehensive scope of the group's many traits and characteristics. The album is heavy on symphonic arrangements and folk influences circulating vigorously through the pumping heart of black metal. Carrying such a wide style of attack often clogs up an instrumental front, but Ancient Rites is able to find a compelling balance between all. The tremolo-picked riffs and blast beats, both ample in count throughout, serve to bolster the detailed orchestral movements stirring up above the battleground. This is an essential factor to consider given the sequences could have survived and created a substantial album had the symphonic arrangements been scrapped; they don't carry the weight of the music, but add atmosphere and emotion.
"Laguz" is an anomaly in this regard, especially during a time when bands like Wintersun and Septicflesh (or Septic Flesh, or whatever) shoehorn in as much symphonic stuff as possible for no appropriate reason. But "Laguz" also boasts incredible melodies and poignant solos penetrating the conflict of sensations already boiling up from what Ancient Rites creates here. There is a vital balance between the many faces of the band shining through and swapping out, though the transformations are done with subtlety and grace. The panorama is further enriched by Gunther Theys' incredible vocals, which are more narrative and spoken than the type of shrieks or growls often found in this niche.
The only thing holding back "Laguz" is the production, which is too synthetic and too digital-sounding to give the record the true sound it deserves. But looking at the songwriting and the natural integrating of symphonic elements into its black/folk metal system without creating a lazy terrain makes the affair meaningful, and worthy of the Ancient Rites banner. As expected, Ancient Rites has done little wrong, and what a scene it is to see them dust off the cobwebs and come soaring back to life.
Ancient Rites - Laguz
Rating:
Share this article
Mother's Day Gift Guide Part 2
Mother's Day Gift Guide Part 1
Root 66: New Riders of the Purple Sage- Gene Clark- More
Robert Plant, Yes and Willie Nelson Among Stars Coming to Ozarks Amphitheater
Live: Heart and Cheap Trick Rock Tampa
AC/DC Reveal 2nd Batch Of 50th Anniversary Reissues
Rush Star Geddy Lee And Alex Lifeson Have Been Jamming Band's Classic Songs
Motley Crue Share Video From Secret Intimate Show
Prince's Cloud 3 Guitar Highlights Julien's Auctions Music Icons
Yes Legend Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks Announce New Album 'TRUE'
Kittie Announce 'Fire' Album With 'Vultures' Video
KING 810 Reveal First Episode Of 'Under The Black Rainbow' Episodic Film Series
Big Head Todd And Ben Harper Lead Blues from the Top Music Festival Lineup