The Wretched End

Something about this Norwegian trio just rules, in the same way something about Zyklon just ruled (and it's not just the fact that they both featured ex-Emperor dudes). It's the effortless and effective melding of black metal guitar with a death metal approach. Many black/death hybrids work, but leave little to remember them by. However, the Wretched End are better at crafting song than most of their peers. And there's a great deal to chew on: "Fear Propaganda" grinds then goes to a quick double-time gallop, while "The Haunting Ground" has a slow, Obituary-loving chug. "Deathtopian Society" is a riff-fest of fast, awesome, blackened picking, while "Blackthorn Winter" hints at the majesty Emperor possessed, again mainly thanks to the guitar work, which is stellar, although the impressive steamroller drumming (courtesy of ex-Dark Funeral skin basher Nils Fjellström) is no slouch either. Delivered with a clear, clean and loud production, this one is a winner.