Pavillon Rouge – Legio Axis Ka (2015)

Industrial Black Metal is one of those genres that are quite hard to get right. Mysticum and Diabolos Rising did a great job igniting the flame, and others like Aborym, Diabolicum, and Malignant Eternal took good stabs at the genre, more than a few years ago. Fast-forward to 2015 and we finally have a promising band in this genre: Pavillon Rouge. Filled with over 47 minutes of devilish catchy beats and sickening soundscapes “Legio Axis Ka” marks the band’s sophomore release.

The album opens with the blistering “Prisme vers l'Odysée”, a track that sets a very dreamy and yet crushing atmosphere that is very well contrasted by the harsh vocals of Kra Cillag. The album’s atmosphere continues to grow with psychotic tracks like the awesome “A l'Univers”, and the aggressive “L'enfer se souvient, l'enfer sait”. For others looking for catchy and more ‘techno’ stuff, “Droge Macht Frei” reminded us of Turmion Kätilöt and their Industrial Metal.

We have never been big fans of programmed drums, but when used correctly they make all the difference, and Pavillion Rouge is more than proficient at this. Trippy songs like “Kosmos Ethikos” and their spoken sections in French really drive the atmosphere over the edge with a very unique vibe. A very unique song in this release is the band’s interpretation of Coolio’s “Gangsta's Paradise” titled “Notre Paradis”, something definitely left as a surprise for the listener.

Closing with the Mysticum-esque “Kluxsantur”, the band really managed to impress us with their excellent skills. Crafting eight original tracks filled with weirdness and catchiness, we are been sold on Pavillion Rouge and their oppressive sound. If you are looking for Industrial Black Metal, “Legio Axis Ka” is the best release in the genre in 2015, so purchase with confidence.

Label: Dooweet Records

Release: April 20th, 2015

Genre: Industrial Black Metal

Country: France