CoC : Vhernen - S.y.b.e.r.i.a. : Review

Vhernen - _S.y.b.e.r.i.a._
(Eerie Art Records, 2006)
by: Quentin Kalis (7.5 out of 10)

Vhernen initially independently released this in CD-R format earlier in 2006 (surely that makes it a demo?) but was quickly discovered and re-released by Eerie Art a few months later -- and they will also be issuing Vhernen's debut full-length early in 2007. Vhernen cites his influences as being, amongst others, Nortt, Bethlehem and Deinonychus, which not so subtly hint at a rather depressive interpretation of black metal -- which it certainly is; but what was less expected was the success Vhernen has in creating an oppressive atmosphere with an element of despair. A lot of black metal bands claim to perform "depressive / despairing / suicidal / take your pick" black metal, but with a few notable exceptions rarely have an impact on the emotional level, and Vhernen is one of those select few. It's not as powerful as it could have been, largely due to the inadequate production, and the songs could have been tweaked a bit further, but there is definite potential and I look forward to their debut full-length.

Contact: http://www.vhernen-doom.tk

(article published 25/1/2007)