Kommandant – The Draconian Archetype (2012)

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As the USBM scene keeps getting better and better over the years, it is not surprising to find high-quality releases, like Kommandant’s “The Draconian Archetype”, that keep pushing the boundaries of Black Metal. The band’s delivers 10 tracks and over 50 minutes of excellent Black Metal with an emphasis on the atmospheric side of things. With a sound similar to bands like Nightbringer and Canadian’s Weapon, Kommandant clearly knows what they are doing and transmit their sickness perfectly in this release.

With excellent dissonant guitars and a balls-to-the-wall approach, “We are the Angels of Death” makes a powerful statement as the opener for this release. The thick atmosphere created by the guitars is outstanding and gives that veil of darkness that many BM releases lack these days. The vocals are creepy and intense, adding an extra layer of dissonance to the music. “Victory Through Intolerance” features a more traditional structure, but that dense atmosphere is nicely present throughout this track as well.

Since the first songs of this release we can hear excellent guitar work and a high amount of variation, making this album not monotonous at all. The drumming is pretty intense and delivers excellent sections that while not too noticeable, it is very well crafted on tracks like “Downfall”, “Obsidian Gravitational” and “Call of the Void”. Our favorite tracks have to be the commanding “Hate is Strength” and its catchy riffing, and the brilliantly chaotic “Procession of Black”. With a high replay value, this is one of those releases that every time you listen to it, you will notice some of the little details hidden behind each song.

“The Draconian Archetype” is indeed a force to be reckoned in the age of un-inspired BM release, this album features more quality in one song that many others in a full set of 10 tracks. The band’s unique atmosphere gives that extra sense of sickness and brutality to their music. If you are looking for an aggressive and bestial release, be sure to check out Kommandant and their latest release.

Band: Kommandant Album: The Draconian Archetype
Label: ATMF

Release: April, 2012

Oficial Site myspace
Genre: Black/Death Metal

Country: USA

Rating: 90/100
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