This is the first Mayhem release that I've truly liked other than 'De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas' (1994). Only a select few from this band that I enjoy, their latest 'Daemon' is a gem. It captures that eerie feel to it like the old, but is a little bit less grim. Being that Euronymous is dead doesn't matter on here, it's like a carrying off from where 'De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas' left. The whole album is good. The music, production and vocals are just purely likeable especially if you like dark black metal. Some bands are even more depressing to listen to and don't listen to this on a dark day of yours unless you want to be more depressed.

Attila Csihar (vocals) and Hellhammer (drums) are the backbone to this band/album. The guitars are good as well. The riffs are pretty original like the old Mayhem and this is why the album is so monumental. It truly is a staple in their discography. 'Daemon' is everything that I'd hoped it to be. Dark, depressing, eerie, original and grim. I actually just went ahead and bought the CD first without prior knowledge of how it would sound, in faith that it'd be everything I'd hoped for. And it was and is. The production is superb and the music just grapples it all.

I'd say try it first on Spotify, especially because it comes with bonus tracks. The CD itself in full-length is about 49+ minutes. It's good the whole way through. I love Attila's original vocals still. It's so wicked. And the guitars are done with precision. The songwriting on here is great and the leads are awesome as well. Not letting up here, this band is the best when it comes to delivering great black metal. I'd say it's probably one of their best releases ever. It's a bold statement but it's what I'm hearing everytime I listen to this album! Everyone in the music community should support this band!

Anyway, like I said, stream it first and then buy the physical copy to show the band support. They really tear it up on here and despite the mood you're in I'm sure you'll like this. Every track is good. The intensity is there as is the unique vocals. The riffs are genuinely good. Probably a better riff-writer than Euronymous himself. But they're picking up where that album left off! Nothing can duplicate the early days but as long as they stay true to their roots, enjoy every minute of this one! They really know how to entertain with solemn music likeable to the select few. Own it!

Rating: 9 (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Death8699
01/07/2020 18:31