While DARK FUNERAL’s last album, Attero Totus Sanctus, was a good album, Angelus Exuro Pro Eternus is a milestone for the band. It’s highly possible that Angelus Exuro Pro Eternus is the band’s finest work thus far. And that’s not bad considering the fact that DARK FUNERAL has always delivered quality music.
With new blastmaster Dominator (IN BATTLE) in tow, the band unleash their trademark darkness, blasting speeds, scorching melodies, and excellent vocals. The most noticeable distinction between Angelus Exuro Pro Eternus and its predecessors is the grander scale and attention paid to creating stronger atmospheres. The proof is in the song writing as tension and atmosphere is developed with a potent and natural flow. Sure, DARK FUNERAL continue to blast at lighting speeds when the time calls for it, but slower, more moodier songs such as “My Funeral” and “In My Dreams” demonstrate a growing musical palette for the band.
Another distinction between this album and its predecessors are the subtle enhancements in songwriting that give a stronger sense of power and impact. For example, the title track has sections where the tempos are fast and there is an effective transition which then transitions into an even faster tempo shift. Vocalist Emperor Magus Caligula lays down another godly performance as he uses his range of different styles to give the song exactly what it needs to be put over the top.
Speaking of Emperor Magus Caligula, he once again proves why he is one of the best vocalists in extreme metal. His absolutely hellish high screams are awesome, especially when he holds out the screams for a long note. His use of his lower death metal vocals, spoken vocals, and higher screams are all blended in naturally to form a strong cohesive identity as opposed to a cut-and-paste approach. The rest of the band, including leader/guitarist Lord Ahriman, should not be discounted as their performances on Angelus Exuro Pro Eternus are noteworthy as well.
There’s something about the fury and fire of DARK FUNERAL’s Angelus Exuro Pro Eternus that is purifying. There is no need for commercial taglines with DARK FUNERAL. This is true black metal. (Regain Records)
