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"Death Cult Armageddon" was without a doubt one of the most highly anticipated metal releases of 2003 and I was one of those who were awaiting this album with tense curiosity. "Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia" (yet another completely meaningless title created with the help of a dictionary I guess...) was a groundbreaking album for Dimmu Borgir as they took a step towards a more aggressive and less symphonic sound. That trend partly continues with their new album as they try to construct a bridge between symphonic arrangements and aggressive guitars. In my humble opinion I must say that they have found a perfect balance between the two on this album. Thanks to the 46 piece Prague Philharmonic Orchestra the symphonic arrangements sound more professional and majestic than ever before and this is probably the most ambitious black metal album ever recorded to this day. It is extremely difficult to point out something that could have been done better on this album and it will be very interesting to see what Dimmu Borgir will produce the next time. I would not have said no to an even heavier sound in a couple of songs, more aggressive vocals from Shagrath and perhaps more focus on creating memorable guitar riffs but compared to most other releases of the year "Death Cult Armageddon" is nothing less than audial art taken to perfection. The production (handled by Fredrik Nordström at Fredman Studios in Sweden) is careful and flawless, the vocals from Shagrath cut through the sound wall like butchers' knives through flesh and Nick Barker ones again does his job behind the drums with great skill. A nice bonus for those of us who have the limited edition is a great cover version of the Bathory classic "Satan My Master". Those of you who were longing to hear Simen's clear vocals again will remain disappointed though. It's a bit sad I must say because he added a great deal to Borknagar's music with his voice but perhaps he will find another place to use them. It's also sad to see a great and unique band like Old Man's Child fade away. Dimmu Borgir is a machine that just keeps on moving but it consumes others in its way. No matter what, "Death Cult Armageddon" is one of the best metal albums ever made and it would almost be a blasphemy not to buy it. It stands clear right now that Dimmu Borgir have passed Cradle Of Filth as the leading melodic black metal band on this planet.
| Tracklist |
| 1. Allegiance |
| 2. Progenesis Of The Great Apocalypse |
| 3. Lepers Among Us |
| 4. Vredesbyrd |
| 5. For The World To Dictate Our Death |
| 6. Blood Hunger Doctrine |
| 7. Allehelgens Død I Helveds Rike |
| 8. Cataclysm Children |
| 9. Eradication Instincts Defined |
| 10. Unorthodox Manifesto |
| 11. Heavenly Perverse |
| Bonus track: |
| 12. Satan My Master |
: 65.46
| Buy other Dimmu Borgir albums |
