Italy's Nefarium have unleashed their debut full length album upon rotten mankind. No, the band aren't about death metal, but black metal. The school where this Italian cohort belongs to, is fast Swedish black metal influenced one.

While the school leaders Dark Funeral are well known band today, Nefarium started before the leaders' ascension towards stardom, if you can use such a word about a black metal band. Majority of 'Praesidium' (Latin for protection or defense) is fast blast inferno, after a minute-long atmosphere setting introduction. Drums play the leading part, because they have been lifted above everything else in the mix. Heavy kick drums are accompanied by brisk snare, reminding of death metal. Somewhat buried echoing guitars deliver evil but absolutely familiar riffs and trebly melodies. Bass give this rumbling low end. Vocals are distant typical black metal delivery. Can't tell you more about lyrical themes, but 'Weismatten Stone' is based upon Italian alps legend, so this might be a bit different take on all things satanic. Well, I've got somekind of an idea about 'Cumshot on the Holy Cunt', hehe.

While the band is very tight, they lack of originality. At times while listening to the album, it's such similar material that I think I'm hearing identical chord patterns. This is powerfully performed (I especially love that drumming), so check Nefarium out, if Swedish school of fast black metal is your thing.

Rating: 5½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
03/20/2006 14:37