LA MASQUERADE INFERNALE

With the release of this record, any doubt as to the direction this band would take were understood. They would not be cast under that dark shadow of mere black metal band, but would be something much, much more. The haunting beginning is enough to evoke memories of the macabre, done in such a way that is not in your face as it is disturbing your mind. Reminds me of a darker and more sinister Symphonic Holocaust.

It should be pointed out that there are many uncredited instruments for the album, as their is quite near a full string outfit used periodically throughout. One such example is the dance with the devil, or what it could be called coming from The Chaos Path. The most normal track here is Alone, a rapid-fire metal piece that connects the oddities of the first half of the album with the more spiritual sounding style of the second half. Not that I would call the second half heavenly, but it is markedly different from the satanic style that dominates the atmosphere of the first half of the album. As has been noted earlier, this is one of the oddest vocal performances Garm has ever done, ranging in style in so many different ways that it is eerily reminiscent to the singings of Mr. Doctor of Devil Doll.

This performance truly was ahead of it's time. It is considered the crown jewel of Arcturus's discography. And understandably so. It is with a great rarity that we come across an album this refreshing, without the slightest hint of anything being overdone or overplayed. Every piece fits, and it fits beautifully.

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