Black metal is a genre that contains a set of seemingly-rigid guidelines that are constantly distorted in a myriad of ways. Taking the set formula and twisting it is, and always has been, a key part of what contributes to the quality of a black metal album. Hell, subgenres like atmospheric black metal and avant-garde black metal couldn’t have been created without the twisting and subverting of the rules of the genre. And today, I have a fine rule-bending treat to present to you: the premier of a song by Verlies, from their upcoming album Les Domaines De Hommes.
Hailing from France, this band brings forth a brooding and atmospheric style of music that combines elements of traditional black metal, avant-garde metal, and post-rock into a emotively powerful fusion. By bringing in some traits of experimental jazz and other various genres to expand their sound, the group diversifies their music and puts forth a blend of influences that will leave listeners craving more.
Their sound twists and turns, churning through disparate sections and weaving many different threads and ideas into a climactic and powerful ending. Verlies is the opposite of an easy listen: it’s heady, hard to follow, and emotionally raw. At the end, though, the cathartic nature of the music wins out and the listener is left feeling cleansed.
If you’re intrigued, feel free to check the album (and the label) out here.
Les Domaines De Hommes will be available on May 28 via Hypnotic Dirge Records and is currently available for pre-order here. Pre-ordering will also net you the album for only $8. When the record is released later this month, buyers will pay full price.
-SH