Review by JD on January 23, 2011.

One of the brightest stars in metal is a band that during the slow comeback of metal have stayed the course. Vader is one of extreme metal shining examples of talent without compromise. One that many bands need to know, and understand the ‘metallic heart’ that beats in the truest of metalheads.

Vader is a delicious blend of strong grinding guitars, guttural (yet legible) vocals and a collection of songs that are powerful - delivered with talent. They are powerful blending of heavy, complexity and talent that stands out in a sea of mediocre metal. Delivering songs that go from the in your face Death Metal that takes the skin off of your face, to some amazing Symphonic Black Metal that is as atmospheric as it is evil. They give you different flavours of extreme metal, and all in the Vader way.

So many of the songs on here are staggeringly good, picking a few of them to shine the spotlight on to write about is impossible.... so I will be simple and direct with my words here. Every track here is a true diamond of brilliant metal that needs to be heard to be appreciated. I love the powerful sounding 'Helleluyah!!! (God Is Dead)', a sing a long for satanists... that is one that needs to be heard for sure.

I will not say but one more thing. Get the hell out of your chair and buy the fucking album, or be a poser for the rest of your life!! This album is a must for all metalheads everywhere.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9
Atmosphere: 9.5
Production: 9
Originality: 10
Overall: 9

Rating: 9.3 out of 10

Review by Kate on March 17, 2011.

Belphegor fans have been waiting with baited breath for the band’s new release, “Blood Magick Necromance” even though it’s only been a little over a year and a half since their previous release, “Walpurgis Rites”. Now that it’s here I can honestly say that people will not be disappointed by this intense and monstrous Black Metal album. Belphegor has managed to take Black Metal and Death Metal and combine them together into a melodic yet destructive beast.

'In Blood-Devour This Sanctify' rips open with furious blastbeats, incredible speed picking that characterizes Belphegor’s classic guitar riffs and Helmuth’s low growls and high shrieks presented solidly in traditional Black Metal deliverance. 'Rise To Fall And Fall To Rise' has more of an emphasized ambiance that is along the lines of Dimmu Borgir layered with symphonic overtones but still remains intensely sinister. The self-titled track shows some more traditional Death Metal influence that’s close to Morbid Angel before morphing back to Black Metal. One of the weaker tracks, if you can call it that, 'Discipline Through Punishment' slows down to more of a somber pace that drags on just a little too long for my taste. 'Possessed Burning Eyes 1997' is an amazingly crafted Black Metal track that convinced me that I will be listening to this album for a good long while.

Whether you’re focusing on the Black or Death Metal aspect of Belphegor's sound you cannot deny that this is an extremely well done album that offers a variety both sides of the spectrum can appreciate. From the musicianship to the writing, “Blood Magick Necromance” flows solidly and with a fury that surpasses others in the same genre.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

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

Rating: 7.7 out 10