Review WORM “Necropalace”

Phantom Slaughter and Wroth Septentrion are the driving forces behind Worm, and their names suggest that their music is not for Valentine’s Day. Worm describes their music as ‘necromantic black doom’, which is a fitting label.
Formed in Florida in 2012, Worm’s music bears little resemblance to the laid-back lifestyle of the Sunshine State. Worm is more like a hurricane in such an environment, combining symphonic black metal from the ’90s with shredding elements from the ’80s.

The dramatic nature of Worm’s music begins with an intro called “Gates to the Shadowzone”. This is a cinematic beginning to the album, with the title track next on the tracklist.

“Necropalace” opens with a more traditional riff. After a short acoustic section, the song evolves and gains speed. Worm doesn’t rely on blast beats alone. There is a recognisable songcraft at play here, as the band adds some clever breaks to the title track. “Necropalace” is a sinister epic on the album, spanning 10 minutes. It is a dramatic journey through blackened romance reminiscent of 90s bands like Dimmu Borgir. The symphonic approach and devilish heaviness define “Necropalace”, and it could not be a better start to the album than with such a black-hearted gem.

If you think the title track is an exception in terms of the length of the tunes, the album will prove you wrong. There’s “Dragon Dreams”, which clocks in at 12 minutes, and the 14-minute finale, “Witchmoon – The Infernal Masquerade”.

“Dragon Dreams” generally has a slower pace. It is a pulsating song in which the keyboards play a more prominent role. There are blistering solo parts and explosive outbursts, while the mesmerising vocals send shivers down your spine.

‘Witchmoon – The Infernal Masquerade’ adheres to the formula that defines the album. This enormous closer has an atmospheric approach and a blackened soundscape, while the fact that guitar wizard Marty Friedman makes a guest appearance speaks for itself.

Worm’s latest studio album stands out. In a sense, the music builds on the symphonic black metal of the ’90s. Keyboards and synth moments add density to the songs, also strengthening the dramatic impact. Combined with hoarse growls, the blackened soul comes to the fore, and despite the links to bands like Dimmu Borgir, Worm has a strong identity of its own. “Necropalace” is home to a diabolical metal event comprising seven chapters of darkness and spellcraft.