Exploring the Psychedelic Depths of Kostnatění’s Přílišnost (Excess)
Kostnatění, a standout in the underground black metal scene, has been making waves with their innovative sound. Hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, this project led by D.L. has consistently pushed the boundaries of black metal, blending various influences into a unique auditory experience. Their latest album, Přílišnost (Excess), marks a significant evolution in their sound, building on the foundations laid by previous releases.
A Journey Through Their Discography
Kostnatění’s journey began with their debut album, Hrůza zvítězí, which showcased a dissonant blackened death metal sound. This was followed by the EP Oheň hoří tam, kde padl, which intriguingly incorporated Turkish folk elements, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Their 2023 album, Úpal, took a more experimental and technical approach, maintaining the intensity that fans had come to expect. With the addition of Joseph Goldwater from Concilium, Přílišnost (Excess) promises to be an even more ambitious project.
The Opening Track: A Bold Statement
The album kicks off with “Dokonalé křišťalové město (Perfect Crystal City),” a track that immediately sets the tone with its industrial elements reminiscent of bands like Mysticum and Anaal Nathrakh. This opening is a bold statement, showcasing a psychedelic twist that still retains the savage essence of black metal. The juxtaposition of off-kilter sounds with aggressive instrumentation creates an intriguing listening experience.
Exploring Themes and Sounds
Following the opener, “Křehký bůh (Fragile God)” dives deeper into heavier territory. The incorporation of death metal vocals adds a refreshing layer, while doomy guitar riffs create a haunting atmosphere. The chaotic climax of this track exemplifies Kostnatění’s ability to balance aggression with musical complexity.
In contrast, “Kostely byly mrakodrapy (Churches Were the Skyscrapers)” introduces a calmer yet still aggressive sound, highlighting the Turkish influences that have become a hallmark of their style. This track serves as a bridge, connecting the heavier elements with the more melodic aspects of their music.
A Rollercoaster of Intensity
As the album progresses, tracks like “Zpět ke kmenům (Back to the Tribes)” deliver a relentless two minutes of harsh intensity. The transition into “Mrtvola Jupitera (Corpse of Jupiter)” showcases the band’s versatility, introducing spacey synths that add depth to the composition. The song’s progression is a wild ride, culminating in a frenetic guitar solo and explosive drumming.
“Samotář (Loner)” continues this trend, featuring a variety of riffs that keep the listener engaged. The intensity ramps up with “Čelist utlačovatele k obrubníku (Jaw of the Oppressor to the Curb),” a track characterized by its speed and chaos, driven by powerful drumming that propels the song forward.
Unhinged Vocals and Experimental Elements
Kostnatění’s songwriting shines in “Znal jsem tě (I Knew You),” which begins with industrial sounds before spiraling into a more chaotic structure. The vocals become increasingly unhinged, particularly in “Dále zvenčí (Further from Outside),” where the aggression reaches new heights. An unexpected clean vocal section adds an intriguing contrast, seamlessly fitting into the album’s overall sound.
The title track, “Přílišnost (Excess),” serves as a fitting conclusion to this wild auditory journey. It encapsulates the essence of the album, blending all the elements explored throughout the previous tracks into a chaotic yet harmonious finale.
A New Standard in Black Metal
If Úpal was a testament to Kostnatění’s experimental nature, Přílišnost (Excess) takes it to an entirely new level. The band successfully navigates the fine line between experimentation and maintaining the aggressive core of their sound. This album is an intense, unhinged journey that traverses psychedelic, industrial, and chaotic landscapes, offering listeners a rich and varied experience.
Kostnatění’s third album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a wild journey that challenges the norms of black metal while delivering the intensity fans crave. With Přílišnost (Excess), the band has solidified their place in the contemporary metal scene, inviting listeners to embrace the chaos and explore the depths of their sound.
Přílišnost (Excess) is out now via Willowtip Records, and it’s a release that should not be missed by fans of the genre.
