Satanic North – Satanic North (Album Review) AtV October 13, 2024 Reviews Satanic North: A Ferocious Return to Black Metal’s Roots Satanic North, the new black metal powerhouse formed by Petri Lindroos (Ensiferum, Warmen) and Janne Parviainen (Ensiferum), delivers a crushing debut that revives the raw spirit of 90s black metal. The album’s ten tracks immerse listeners in unrelenting darkness, marked by fierce blastbeats, frostbitten riffs, and a thematic dedication to the satanic. With fast tempos and brutal soundscapes, Satanic North balances homage to classic black metal while infusing a fresh, ferocious energy that is both primal and cathartic. This debut is a sonic embodiment of chaos and fury, but it’s also meticulously crafted. Tracks such as “Frozen Abyss” and “Eternal Blasphemy” stand out for their blistering pace and precision, with the band paying particular attention to the unholy atmosphere. The album taps into the essence of early Immortal and Mayhem, while keeping a distinct modern flair that never feels derivative. The project stems from a deeply personal drive for both musicians to explore a genre they had not yet fully delved into. Petri Lindroos, known for his melodic death metal work, expresses the liberating experience of venturing into black metal, a genre that demands total commitment to its dark aesthetic and philosophy. His growling vocals, alongside Janne Parviainen’s relentless drumming, create a sonic assault that never lets up, taking listeners on a journey through infernal realms. While much of the album is a nod to black metal’s early days, Satanic North brings a renewed sense of urgency to the genre. Songs like “Covenant of Ashes” and “Into the Black Flame” don’t just revisit the old formulas—they twist them with modern production, injecting renewed life into the cold, harsh soundscapes. The result is an album that stays true to the traditional aesthetics of black metal while feeling visceral and immediate. Satanic North’s debut is more than just a tribute; it’s a declaration of intent. With their sharp, icy riffs and unrelenting blast beats, Petri and Janne have created something both nostalgic and pioneering. They take black metal back to its aggressive roots, while making it accessible to a new generation of metalheads who crave speed, precision, and an authentic darkness. This album is a brutal reminder that black metal, when done right, is timeless. Standout tracks: “Frozen Abyss,” “Covenant of Ashes,” “Into the Black Flame.” 7,5/ 10 Album: Satanic North Band: Satanic North Label: Reaper Entertainmant Distribution: Reaper Entertainmant/ The Rock Online Release date: April 2024 Track list: 1. War 2. Arise 3. Village 4. Hatred and Blasphemy 5. Four Demons 6. Behind the Inverted Cross 7. Vultures 8. Wolf 9. Kohti Kuolemaa 10. Satanic North SATANIC NORTH are: Von Occult – vocals Skomorokh – guitars IIT Caprae – bass/backing vocals Abyssir – drums Discography: Four Demons – Demo EP (2022) Satanic North – Album (2024)