VARATHRON return with The Crimson Temple and make it clear that they remain one of the most consistent and creative bands of the Greek black metal scene. The record was released by Agonia Records and continues the path opened by Patriarchs of Evil, but with an even cleaner sound, tighter compositions and an atmosphere that draws you in from the first moment.
The band has worked on the record with care. The music was written by Achilleas C. and Sotiris, who have done an excellent job on the guitars. Their sound combines classic Greek black metal with heavy metal melodies, darker doom passages and a modern production that gives space to every instrument. The lyrics are by Necroabyssious, who remains VARATHRON’s signature voice and leading figure. His performance is imposing, theatrical and full of personality.
The album opens strong with “Ascension” and continues with “Hegemony of Chaos”, one of the record’s strongest tracks. “Crypts in the Mist” has melodies that stay with you, while “Cimmerian Priesthood” raises the epic character with guitars that recall classic heavy metal through the band’s dark style. “Sinners of the Crimson Temple” and “To the Gods of Yore” continue at the same level, with great flow and atmosphere.
The record has ten tracks in total and runs about 47 minutes. There are no “dips”. Every song has its role and the flow is very good from start to finish. VARATHRON don’t try to copy their past, nor do they change something just to change. They evolve their sound in a natural way, without losing their identity.
The production is clean and powerful. The guitars have depth, the drums are solid and Necroabyssious’s voice blends perfectly with the overall style. It’s a record that plays pleasantly from start to finish and shows a band that knows exactly what it wants to do.
The Crimson Temple is a record that honors VARATHRON’s history, but also shows that the band still has plenty of inspiration. Melodies, atmosphere, personality and a steady creative course that continues without taking a step back.
ALBUM CREDITS – THE CRIMSON TEMPLE
| Stefan Necroabyssious | Vocals |
| Achilleas C. | Guitars, Keyboards |
| Haris | Drums |
| Sotiris | Guitars |
| Stratos Kountouras | Bass |
Music: Achilleas C., Sotiris Lyrics: Necroabyssious Label: Agonia Records Release: December 1, 2023 Runtime: ~47 minutes
