Review by Krys on November 5, 2013.

...And this is how death/thrash metal should be played. After 5 years since their last full length release Darkane delivers one of the best albums in its discography and definitely a strong candidate for best of 2013. It's not their best cause I have my old favorite but this blows out of the water almost anything else in this genre that's currently out there. One of the main forces of Gothenburg sound shows once again why they are the class on its own.

To tell you the truth there's really nothing wrong with this release. Rhythm section is as alway sharp as broken glass, Lawrence Mackory delivers impeccable vocals and with their signature orchestral interludes, sweeping guitars and sticky choruses you're left singing with them by the end of first listen. I mean 'nothing wrong' is an understatement. With the original lineup from 1999 'The Sinister Supremacy' succesfuly blends elements of their root sound with modern thrash. Doesn't matter what aspect of the overall sound is your favorite, drums, guitars or vocals, you're treated with intelligent, sharp and unparalleled musicianship. Once again this is how it's done and for all those new thrash/death enthusiasts listen and learn from the royalty of this genre.

I guess there's nothing more to say here, just love it - even bonus tracks are outstanding. The only problem I have is 5 year hiatus between releases. If this continues in 5 more years I'll be banging my head bold but who cares if it looks like to be yet another classic.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Originality: 9
Musicianship: 10
Atmosphere: 10
Production: 10
Overall: 9

Rating: 9.6 out of 10

Review by Allan on May 22, 2003.

As it is, metal from the Middle Eastern portion of the world is rarely recognized or noted. However, the metal that has come from there and managed to gain some recognition has proven to be quality time and time again. Bands such as Orphaned Land or Sleepless have acted as testaments to the claim that metal from their portion of the world is seemingly more interesting, and also more original and creative. To further emphasize that the Middle East has a relative foot in the scene’s door is Jerusalem’s Melechesh and their latest album ”Sphynx.”

Melechesh are most closely related to fellow death metallers Nile, musically, and somewhat thematically. Yet there is a fine line that keeps the two separated. Where as Nile like to fire away at full speed for the majority of the time and give the listener a runaround with their cacophony, Melechesh are much more structured and mid-paced. And that little Middle Eastern theme that Nile has going for them? Melechesh has that too, yet it is far more superior and strategically placed in the music. Instead of throwing in intense passages with authentic instruments, you can actually hear the influence in their riffs and leads. In that sense, Melechesh are a more death metal Orphaned Land than anything.

The song writing on “Sphynx” is much more structured, thus having repeating themes. You’re not stuck with a lengthy arrangement that gets too big to be successfully handled. Instead, you’ve got a stronger song. Sections will be repeated, but new ones will arise throughout the songs when needed. Another thing to be noted is Melechesh’s tendency to make use of their crushing rhythm section. Often times a part will be repeated for a long time, making room for a powerful lead guitar solo to cut through. This can no doubt be off-putting for those with a short attention span, but it usually leans towards being beneficial for Melechesh.

“Sphynx” is no doubt one of the better death metal releases for 2003. The good songwriting combined with the excellent musicianship make Melechesh a hard act to pass up. Hopefully they’ll be able to gain more recognition, seeing as they’ve got a lot to offer.

Bottom Line: Melechesh’s third and most powerful release to date. Death metal that’s interesting and not totally generic – definitely recommended.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Production: 7
Originality: 8
Overall: 7.5

Rating: 7.6 of 10

Review by Allan on May 22, 2003.

As it is, metal from the Middle Eastern portion of the world is rarely recognized or noted. However, the metal that has come from there and managed to gain some recognition has proven to be quality time and time again. Bands such as Orphaned Land or Sleepless have acted as testaments to the claim that metal from their portion of the world is seemingly more interesting, and also more original and creative. To further emphasize that the Middle East has a relative foot in the scene’s door is Jerusalem’s Melechesh and their latest album ”Sphynx.”

Melechesh are most closely related to fellow death metallers Nile, musically, and somewhat thematically. Yet there is a fine line that keeps the two separated. Where as Nile like to fire away at full speed for the majority of the time and give the listener a runaround with their cacophony, Melechesh are much more structured and mid-paced. And that little Middle Eastern theme that Nile has going for them? Melechesh has that too, yet it is far more superior and strategically placed in the music. Instead of throwing in intense passages with authentic instruments, you can actually hear the influence in their riffs and leads. In that sense, Melechesh are a more death metal Orphaned Land than anything.

The song writing on “Sphynx” is much more structured, thus having repeating themes. You’re not stuck with a lengthy arrangement that gets too big to be successfully handled. Instead, you’ve got a stronger song. Sections will be repeated, but new ones will arise throughout the songs when needed. Another thing to be noted is Melechesh’s tendency to make use of their crushing rhythm section. Often times a part will be repeated for a long time, making room for a powerful lead guitar solo to cut through. This can no doubt be off-putting for those with a short attention span, but it usually leans towards being beneficial for Melechesh.

“Sphynx” is no doubt one of the better death metal releases for 2003. The good songwriting combined with the excellent musicianship make Melechesh a hard act to pass up. Hopefully they’ll be able to gain more recognition, seeing as they’ve got a lot to offer.

Bottom Line: Melechesh’s third and most powerful release to date. Death metal that’s interesting and not totally generic – definitely recommended.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Production: 7
Originality: 8
Overall: 7.5

Rating: 7.6 of 10