Band: Azarath
Title: Praise The Beast
Label: Agonia Records
Distribution: Sure Shot Worx
Release date: 25/05/2009
Review: CD

The Polish horde Azarath has always stood for quality and professionalism, and Praise The Beast is no difference. The album was recorded with Arkadiusz ‘Malta’ Malczewski, known from his assistance with bands as Behemoth, Vesania, Lost Soul, Devilyn and Elysium, to name but a few.

For over forty minutes, Praise The Beast brings technical and fast Death Metal with attention for speed and power. The tracks vary from up-tempo to blasting fast, and especially the pounding rhythm section comes with a devastating energy. At the same time, the riffs, fast and furious, are rather melodic too, and the deep growls (+ some grinding screams) add a touch of blasphemy I cannot ignore. The album isn’t renewing at all, but it easily exceeds the average level nowadays. Recommended to fans of both American and European (mainly the Polish, Dutch, Belgian, German and French) Blasting Satanic Death Metal.

Oh yes, the digi-pack edition, as well as the vinyl (LP) version, contain the Acheron-cover Ave Satanas as bonus track.

84/100

Ivan Tibos.