Sometimes, a debut album feels less like an introduction and more like a statement of intent. With Bloodmoon Eclipse’s “For I Am Your Death,” that statement is clear: true Norwegian black metal doesn’t care about borders. Despite hailing from Greece, this duo; Ungod of SAD and K.C.H. of Lunar Spells, have crafted an album that sounds as if it was plucked straight from the frostbitten forests of 1993 Norway. The spirit of the early Darkthrone, Gorgoroth, and Dødheimsgard runs rampant here, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

The opening track immediately establishes the atmosphere: it’s cold, uncompromising, and utterly relentless. The guitar work by Ungod is raw, buzzing, and filled with that classic tremolo-picked bleakness, while the drums drive forward with relentless precision. K.C.H.’s basslines are more than just a backdrop, they weave subtle, contemplative touches that give the music a sense of depth without compromising the lo-fi, frozen aesthetic.

What sets “For I Am Your Death” apart is its dedication to the roots of black metal. There’s no attempt to modernize, no hint of post-production sheen. This is pure, raw black metal: an icy blast of sonic malevolence that harkens back to the genre’s most infamous years. Tracks unfold like sinister narratives, drawing you into a dark, atmospheric journey that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s a testament to the duo’s skill that they can evoke such a sense of timelessness while remaining authentic to their influences.

Standout moments include the subtle yet haunting bass work in the middle sections, where the aggression momentarily gives way to eerie contemplation. The vocals are a cold, croaking rasp, channelling a sense of nihilistic despair that perfectly complements the music’s grim atmosphere. From start to finish, the production stays true to the genre’s core ethos; raw, lo-fi, and intentionally cold.

If you’re a fan of that early 90s black metal sound, Bloodmoon Eclipse will hit you like a blizzard to the face. This isn’t just an album; it’s a time capsule of a sound and ethos that many try to replicate but few execute with such conviction. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them headlining Inferno Festival in the near future because they’ve nailed every aspect of what makes classic black metal so powerful and enduring.

In short, “For I Am Your Death” is pure, unadulterated black metal bliss. There’s nothing here to fault, and everything to savour. From the atmospheric storytelling to the impeccable musicianship, this album proves that true black metal knows no geographic boundaries. Bloodmoon Eclipse may be from Greece, but their hearts are cold and Norwegian. An incredible debut that deserves every ounce of respect from the tight-knit black metal community.

Rating: 10/10
Release Date: August 2024
Label: Purity Through Fire

Writer: Andy Baqone

Tracklist:

1. Maggot Casket
2. Body In The Basement
3. She Was Already Dead
4. Digested Desire
5. Ruptured In Purulence