SHADOWS LAND - Ante Christum (Natum) - review

"Ante Christum (Natum)" is the first full-length release (after two demo materials) from one of Poland's most interesting death/black metal bands up to date. However, describing them as death/black cannot easily explain the complex vibe of their twisted music. Since the very beginning of this record we are immediately confronted with a completely fresh and in some way even innovative approach to playing aggressive metal. In other words - if you're expecting a Vader/Deicide kind of playing, then it would be much wiser to stay at home playing your Quake III Arena. What we've got on this disc is very likely to change your views on how modern metal should be played. It doesn't unfortunately mean that "Ante Christum..." is perfect. As a matter of fact, it's not. Sometimes the arrangements tend to be a little immature, the connections between following patterns appear to be completely illogical and the vocals enter some false tones, trying to sound very grotesque. On the other hand, Shadows Land enter extreme musical areas with new and courageous ideas on presenting brutality. They are not afraid to use samplers, to break the common 4/4 boundaries and at the same time remain strongly faithful to death and black metal slaying in the vein of "Grand Declaration Of War" by Mayhem and modern-era Behemoth. The other thing that I'm not fully content with, is the lack of guitar solos. Trust me, this cd would be much more twisted and sick, if it were granted a decent, professional and avantgarde soloing. Despite those little failures (maybe not a good word, though), it's definitely worth trying. To sum up - if you're searching for some fresh attitude in modern blasting, check this one. For more info, check www.shadowsland.metal.pl and bang your head for Satan!!!