Black metal is a unique sub-genre of metal, and with it comes devoted fans and listeners who embrace it. Just like any other type of music, the musicians and bands push the limits of their sub-genre. New sounds, directions, and meanings are created, and the genre grows. It's hard for anyone to ignore good music, even if it's not as accessible. This is where Unsacred comes in. This more contemporary black metal band seems to have hit the nail on the head in what I would expect from this genre.
This Richmond, Virginia band started around 2012. Unsacred has released three separate EPs over the past two years, and on December 9th, 2014 their latest production False Light was released as their first full-length. False Light is a concise seven-track album clocking in at 21 minutes and 58 seconds. Do not be deluded, this fourth issue is worth every second. Unsacred has managed to focus their sound from their previous albums and target a mood that can't be ignored. This undeniable direction makes False Light one of the most attractive black metal albums of the year.
Throughout the first several listens, the length was disappointing. 22 minutes leaves much to be desired, given the quality of music executed. I found myself constantly re-starting the album at a uncomfortable pace. Over time, greater care was taken in keeping my attention tuned to every segment enacted. The brevity seemed to bring out the heavy passion Unsacred beholds. The focused intensity, the variation of tempo; these attributes collide in a compact functioning sound. This may be attributed to the strong dose of hardcore that has influenced them. There are segments reminiscent of the undeniable hardcore influence that black metal is known to be related too. Unsacred bolsters this notion and uses this attribute noticeably throughout.
One of the refreshing attributes on this album would be the production. Yes, many fans enjoy the low quality production that black metal is related too, but it's not for everyone. This is 2014, and if new albums continue to sound as if they have been recorded in a trashcan in a basement, that's fine for some, but you won't ever find me watching static on a television set and calling it art. There is still a grimy feel on False Light, but it has more to do with the dark guitar effects than the production value.
"Void II" is a personal favorite. It starts with a catchy riff and groove beat, and still incorporates the drawn out vocals. The song then picks up in tempo and almost reminds me of a melodic hardcore groove but continues to carry the dark traditional strains that are expected. The ending has a chilling vocal segment that will settle into the bowels of the listener.
Unsacred delivers on False Light. It's a complete album given its short length, and its catchy hardcore origins are enough to energize any fan of metal, no matter what spectrum of metal they are comfortable with. This is an exciting release and is an comfortable 7/10. A great album for a first full length release.
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