Review by Felix on December 16, 2023.

Some busybodies might say that the here presented split has "an interesting format" or "a highly original arrangement". In my humble opinion, the concept is absolutely moronic. Two bands play eight songs. So far, so good. But both groups present exactly the same four tracks, two own compositions and the two compositions of the other formation. That is a solution of striking simplicity in order to release a "full-length". I am deeply impressed. The interrelations between the line-ups of the participating groups also have to be mentioned, because they stress the strange taste of this release. However, I do not want to be a crybaby. Therefore, let me switch the perspective.

My favourite band from Spain, the glorious Körgull, returns with eleven minutes of fresh noise. Both tunes prolong the band´s war against any kind of beauty. With the maximum of heavy ugliness, the ironclad formation dances on the bones of its victims. Cruel and minimalist riffing intertwines with violent drumming and the shrill cries of Lilith as well as her imperious commands add the final touch. Of course, this masculine kind of female articulation always reminds me of Sabina, the more or less legendary vocalist of Holy Moses. Nonetheless, this stylistic analogy does not matter. Thousands of male death metal growlers sound similar and nobody gives a damn. In other words, I guess Lilith is the ideal cast for Körgull and the ultimate torturer of her microphone. However, if you like to listen to the band´s last works, you will also bow down to the here performed pieces. Körgull has become a reliable partner for the slobbering fans of merciless high quality death thrash. Black metal elements also show up, but they are of minor importance for the shaping of the songs.

Akerbeltz is not impressed by the sonic storm of Körgull. They deliver the same degree of heaviness without being immune against the highest degree of dissonance. Listen to "Spell of the Banshees" and in particular to its part which begins after 70 seconds. It is not a nice experience. But under the bottom line, Akerbeltz strikes back in an impressive manner. The band does not defeat the ruffians of Körgull with their own arguments. Otherwise there is no need for a capitulation. Rattling drums, fairly low-tuned guitars and a nagging lead vocalist create an inferno, a bastard of death and thrash metal. Akerbeltz - as well as Körgull - masters the art of keeping the songs exciting. This detail must be expressively mentioned. It is no matter of course with regard to the tight framework of the selected style that does not leave much room for diversity.

You do not need to have the most expensive speakers in order to enjoy this split. As you surely know, this kind of music unfolds its strength on the basis of a certain amount of dirt. The old triumvirate of the British Warfare is still valid: noise, filth and fury. Therefore, I do no longer think about the nature of the concept. Instead, I praise its good side effect. You have to know that the output presents a particularity. Its best song is called "Hatred Rules Again" - and the second-best tune has exactly the same name. Amazing, isn't it?

Rating: 7.2 out of 10

Review by JD on January 9, 2009.

Finnish pioneers of thrashing Black Metal have come out from the fog shrouded gloom of their homeland and released a blackened flame spewing masterpiece onto the world. The lord of darkness himself must smile with his devotees called Urn.

Unabashed and straight ahead is the only way you could describe it... Urn delivers some refreshing old school Black Metal that is black-tinged with a little Thrash Metal for good measures. They do not compromise on anything in their attack, music or lyrics... simply gives it to you squarely between the eyes. They are going to deliver all of this, without any fluff or fold.

Songs like the title track, 'Soul Destroyer' and 'Black Steel Worship' jump out and is so furious in it's intensity, showing that Black Metal can be melodic yet crushing skulls at the same time. It is true that this is bone basic striped down Black Metal... but Urn have not scrimped even a little bit on the musicality that these three Finns seem to have... the strength come from the fact that they do not add things when they are not needed... they are who they are, end of story!

I found myself enjoying ever last note until the end, lifting up my hands to worship the metal that comes through the speakers. The undisputed Godfathers of Black Metal, the mighty Venom, would be glad to be calling Urn their bastard spawned child (if they had one)....Urn is in that sort of league when it comes down to it... their next album might be their own masterpiece as "Black Metal" was for Venom.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 8
Originality:7
Overall: 8

Rating: 8.0 out of 10