Myriad as it may be, the human condition is entrenched with an unending flurry of major and minor setbacks, many of which influence art, and specifically music. With their upcoming Plague Hymns EP, American black metal band Sarcoptes draw a similar parallel- their EP being a prelude to a visceral second album is not very different from the many telling smaller signs that point to apocalyptic disaster. The band’s refreshing incorporation of thrash-y elements and synth bits makes this a ‘must-listen’ for lovers of extreme metal doused with eccentricity. You can check out the first track that’s on Bandcamp and YouTube.
Reviews:
– “Crushing musicianship and a flawless execution” – Natttskog (UK) 8/10
– “an offering that is going to keep my attention for much longer” – Headbanger Reviews (US)
– “Black metal with a lot of power.” – Dioses del Metal (Spain )
– “another great sounding recording.” – A Different Shade Of Black Metal
Sarcoptes (US) – Plague Hymns (October 2nd, 2020)
Genre – Black/Thrash Metal
Release Date – October 2nd, 2020
Record Label – Transcending Obscurity Records
For fans of – Emperor, Sathanas, Nifelheim, Aura Noir, Destroyer 666, Immortal, Absu, Abbath, early SatyriconFollowing hard on the heels of the highly acclaimed debut full length album that showcased Sarcoptes‘ ingenuity of blending thrash and death metal influences effortlessly in an epic black metal template, on this new EP they take things up a notch and exhibit renewed passion and flair further cementing their unique yet highly enjoyable sound. The two songs here are terrific examples of brilliant songwriting that weaves together myriad elements without losing cohesion or continuity. The result is absolutely thrilling and rivetting; the songs don’t seem to overstay their welcome despite being long and continue their epic and intense onslaught without ever waning. This EP serves as a perfect precursor to the upcoming full length album that is in the works. If this is anything to go by, the future of US black metal is in safe hands.
Band lineup –
Garrett Garvey – Vocals
Drums Sean Zimmerman – Guitars, Bass and Keyboards
Artwork by Ze Burnay
Logo by Christophe Szpajdel
Layout by Francesco Gemelli
Track listing –
1. The Vertigo Soul
2. La Moria Grandissima
Transcending Obscurity Official YouTube Channel