Review MAYHEM “Liturgy of Death”

Mayhem are back with a new album. “Liturgy of Death” is the title of their seventh studio album, and their first in over six years. The pioneers of Scandinavian black metal have delivered eight new songs, demonstrating their experience by offering compositions that are both intense and technically sophisticated.

“Liturgy of Death” showcases one of the most influential black metal acts at work. “Ephemeral Eternity” is the starting point, and after a brief introduction, the song takes some dramatic twists. It is not the initial blasting outbursts that provide “Ephemeral Eternity” with its evil grin. It is Mayhem’s ability to create eerie soundscapes regardless of pace that provides it with its malevolent aura. The slower parts are as intense as the faster sections. Mayhem operate close to chaos, but never cross the border. Just when you think they are ahead of the game, the songs take a new turn.

Next is “Despair”, which showcases Hellhammer’s extreme drumming. A hard-hitting drumbeat and a frantic tempo push the song to its limits. At the same time, Mayhem operates with surgical precision, intensifying the evil spirit of “Liturgy of Death”.

Mayhem can count on consistency when it comes to the line-up. Two veterans, Necrobutcher and Hellhammer, are still in the band, and frontman Attila Csihar’s vocals are a substantial part of Mayhem. His wide vocal range, which includes classic moments and devilish barks, makes each song on the album a ritual experience, echoing perfectly through “Weep for Nothing”.

Hellish vibes form the basis of “Funeral of Existence”. The song has a solid groove. Combined with some blast beats, the song is like a sonic fever dream. “Liturgy of Death” is characterised by nostalgic moments and grown structures.

Mayhem ended the album with the epic song “The Sentence of Absolution”. Clocking in at seven minutes, this pitch-black symphony features rage-fuelled guitar riffs and Attila Csihar’s haunting vocals. With its twists, the song is an infernal way to bring “Liturgy of Death” to a close. It spreads a venomous smile that stares at you as you begin to relish the discomfort.

Mayhem are masters at creating a diabolical atmosphere. The fascination lies in their enthralling music, eerie vocals and dense sound. “Liturgy of Death” is an album that showcases merciless heaviness, untamed frenzy, and brutal power. Combined with vocals reminiscent of a devilish rite, the album is a prime example of why Mayhem is such a significant force in black metal. Even after 42 years, the band hasn’t lost any of its sinister fascination.