Twenty years later, Belphegor offers us again Necrodaemon Terrorsathan, the remaster version.
Since nearly thirty years, Belphegor (formerly Betrayer from 1991 to 1992) spreads terror into the Black/Death scene. Helmuth (guitar/vocals) and Serpenth (bass, ex-Eledhel), alongside on stage with Molokh (guitar, Hollenthon) and Ravager (drums, Banisher, Fleshgod Apocalypse) or Pavulon (drums, Antigama, Batushka, Faust, ex-Hate, ex-Vader) didn’t say their last word yet.
Whether you know Belphegor, you already know Necrodaemon Terrorsathan. This iconic album from the band’s incredible discography was already adored by the genre’s connoisseurs, melting a dirty sound, unhealthy riffs and vocals on the border between Death Metal raw strength and Black Metal unholy tones still offers some tracks in the recent setlists. When it was released, in 2000, it scared us, disturbed us, assaulted us but however we immediately loved it. Old School lovers may stir up scandal because the mix is more “clean”, but this album’s spirit still lives in filth, blood and sick perversity. We find this pure violence on Necrodaemon Terrorsathan and Necrodaemon Terrrorsathan pt2, respectively the first and the last song of this full-length, but there is something else that shocks. Keyboards and samples are more powerful, as well as this voice that the vocalist controls better, and which is more impressive. Leads are still as tearing, as on Diabolical Possession, but the whole thing is heavier, as the smashing Lust Perishes in a Thirst for Blood can testifies. S.B.S.R. and Sadism Unbound, two of my favorite tracks, also benefit of a more crushing, piercing and more actual sound, which can be felt into those dark melodies.
Belphegor’s goal is reached. The unholy Necrodaemon Terrorsathan keeps this soul that oscillates between strength, blasphemy and decadent luxury, but benefits of an actual mix and above all of the band’s recent improvements. Once again, it’s a must-hear.
95/100