Label - Century Media
Released - 9th July
For a band that have been established for nearly 40 years, Mayhem releases are not as regular as one would expect. So, to get two releases from the pioneers of Black Metal in the space of two years is an absolute treat.
Following on from their last release, the incredible ‘Daemon’ in 2019, the Norwegians have now unleashed their latest offering. The EP ‘Atavistic Black Disorder/ Kommando’, comprises of 3 tracks from the ‘Daemon’ sessions which were not included in the album and 4 punk rock covers.
A band that have been through such tragedy and turmoil in the early years, some would have forgiven them to disband and move their separate ways. But Mayhem stood firm and stuck to what they do best, playing no thrills pure Black Metal. Although the three tracks didn’t make the album these act as a wonderful supplement to the ‘Daemon’ LP.
Album opener ‘Voices Ab Alta’ (which was released as a single) builds the sinister atmosphere. The classic guitar tone leading up to the aural onslaught of Attila’s demonic vocals, Hellhammer’s precision drumming and Necrobutchers unique bass tone.
‘Everlasting Dying Flame’ is a stand out track. Starting with the classic format of fast paced raw black metal, Hellhammer provides the driving, pounding rhythm and Attila sounds possessed. While on the subject of Attila, it’s hard to argue that the man is clearly up there with the most distinct vocalists in the genre. No one comes close to his vocal technique. His satanic opera approach to moans, groans and growls add another dimension to Mayhem’s unique sound. Halfway through, the song winds down into a slow moody almost doom like track showcasing every single member of the band, from the haunting guitar tones to Hellhammer’s intricate use of every part of his monstrous drum kit.
What follows are 4 tracks of cover songs:
Discharge – ‘In Defense of Our Future’- Featuring former vocalist Messiah
Dead Kennedys ‘Hellnation’ – Featuring former vocalist Maniac
Rudimentary Peni- ‘Only Death’
Ramones- ‘Commando’
People may raise an eyebrow as to why Mayhem are covering punk songs, but watch the videos on YouTube (An Everlasting Flame) which the band explain why. These 4 covers are absolutely brilliant. With days left over in the studio after the recording of Daemon, the band used the time to pick some covers. As the band state, there was a pure buzz playing these and you can hear the enjoyment on each track. Necrobutcher also invited past members Messiah and Maniac to contribute vocals which is a nostalgic journey.
This is a great EP to get fans excited again for when they can hopefully see Mayhem obliterating venues across the globe in support of Daemon.
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