Review by Jack on August 25, 2003.

You'll be scarcely able to find a more reliable album in the world that sums up death metal in its present state, circa 2003 that can overshadow Imperious and their debut "In Splendour." Insane solos and furious shredding that typifies the technical wizardry of death metal, combined with livid drumming, yet again walking within the boundaries of death metal, and to top it off fiendishly harsh roaring from vocalist Johan which you could find on most good death records out there.

Unfortunately for Imperious there is not a lot to separate them from the countless of death metal legion groupies out there. Their talent is impeccable, the production faultless and they are full of ferocity. But then again, in this day and age what group isn't ferocious and compromised of folk who know their respective instruments like the back of their hands?

If you are a fan of death metal and names like Hate Eternal, Nile and Decapitated get your blood boiling and your juices flowing, then I believe you can feel free to add Imperious to your list. "In Splendour" will really appeal to the fans of the genre. However, for those of you who require something a little bit extra from your death metal "In Splendour" is strictly try before you buy.

Bottom Line: 11 tracks of death metal brutality. Lots of impressive moments to complement Imperious on, but just not quite enough to raise them to the next level. "In Splendour" is worth having a listen to, though.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7.5
Atmosphere: 6
Production: 8
Originality: 5
Overall: 6

Rating: 6.5 out of 10