CoC : Impiety - Kaos Kommand 696 : Review

Impiety - _Kaos Kommand 696_
(Osmose, 2002)
by: Quentin Kalis (7.5 out of 10)

Despite being together for a decade, Impiety have not lost their affection for their idiosyncratic, and to be honest puerile, song titles. (Though they do seem to be slightly less OTT than before.) But musically, they have come a long way. All traces of their early, straightforward black metal approach have been erased; the thrash frills of previous CD (the awesome _Skullfucking Armageddon_) have been retained, and a strong death metal influence has been added to the mix. The production is vastly superior to that on any previous album, and this has resulted in a noticeably more focused and intense release, showcasing an unexpected complexity. In short, Impiety has grown up. But once the initial surprise has worn off, this album is fairly disappointing. _KK696_ is not nearly as catchy nor as engrossing as _SA_. Even after repeated listens, _KK696_ simply fails to make an impression. This album could almost be seen as a practice run or as a stepping stone, as it showcases a dramatic growth yet fails to impress. If Impiety follows on what they have started with this album, the next may very well be their masterpiece; for now I'll stick with _SA_.

(article published 26/12/2003)

ALBUMS
5/6/2012	J Carbon	7	Impiety - Ravage and Conquer
11/7/2008	J Ulrey	7.5	Impiety - Dominator EP
10/12/1999	A Wee	9	Impiety - Skullfucking Armageddon
6/7/1997	S Hoeltzel	5	Impiety - Asateerul Awaleen