MORBID
ANGEL – Illud Divinum Insanus
Season Of Mist Records
The release of MORBID ANGEL's “Illud Divinum Insanus”
marks the band's return after a significant hiatus. As an iconic entity in the
death metal genre, their new album invites both anticipation and scrutiny. To
provide a comprehensive perspective, I have listened to the record multiple
times—at least five—to explore its various nuances thoroughly.
From a sonic standpoint, MORBID ANGEL retains the core
elements of their traditional sound, characterized by a clear and polished
production that modernizes their earlier, rawer aesthetic. Notably, the second
track introduces an increased presence of grind elements, distinctly aligning
it with grindcore influences and marking a divergence from their typical style.
Throughout the album, mystical and apocryphal melodies
are woven into the compositions, often performed with classical instruments or
conveyed through intricate guitar riffs. These melodic components maintain the
band's signature dark and depraved style but appear more prominent and, at
times, overly emphasized, which can lead to a sense of overextension in some
tracks.
The album features several repetitive moments that
could have been streamlined for better pacing— for example, a track exceeding
six minutes that might have benefited from condensation without compromising
its essence. Conversely, Mr. Azagthoth demonstrates notable growth in his
rhythmic vocabulary, particularly within mid-tempo sections, reflecting both
maturity and continuous development in songwriting.
Vocalist Vincent's delivery is slightly cleaner
compared to previous albums, yet it preserves the raw intensity and brutality
characteristic of the band. This vocal approach complements the updated sound
palette, adding a subtle freshness without detracting from the album’s
aggressive core.
Overall, “Illud Divinum Insanus” is likely to resonate
with new death metal enthusiasts, offering a modernized take that incorporates
diverse influences. Longtime fans may find the album somewhat unfamiliar
initially; however, with repeated listens, they may uncover new details and
appreciate the band's evolving approach.
George Kefalas
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