CoC : Demonic - Lead Us Into Darkness : Review

Demonic - _Lead Us Into Darkness_
(Necropolis/Sepulture, 1995)
by: Gino Filicetti (7 out of 10)

This release is actually a re-release of Demonic's first demo entitled _Nar Morket Faller_. After forming in 1994, this two-man band went on to sign with Necropolis in 1995. Only four tracks are included here, but the power of this recording is nonetheless undeniable. The record was recorded at the "legendary" Greighallen in Norway and produced by Pytten (Mayhem, Immortal, Emperor, Enslaved etc). The first track, "Spell of the Witchdemon", starts this EP off on a very powerful note. Guitars are well produced and intelligently played, drumming is excellent and a good measure of synth work is thrown in to even out the mix. The only weak link I found were the vocals which I think should have been given more power in the final mix. The next track, "His Eyes Burn Hate", is not much different than the first track; the riffs are still killer and escape stagnation through clever tempo changes. One blatant mistake on this track is the abruptness with which it ends, practically mid-note! "Unholy Gate of Limbo" continues Demonic's trend of powerful Black Metal and also includes a cool organ section which becomes even cooler once the guitars and drums are thrown in. Lastly is "Nar Morket Faller" which is sung in Norwegian (obviously!). I found a strong similarity here with later Burzum material, but one thing is for sure, The Count's production pales in comparison to this. Try this one out and see for yourself.

(article published 10/5/1996)

ALBUMS
3/10/1998	S Hoeltzel	6.5	Demonic - The Empire of Agony