Having made the jump to a major label signing in 2024, last year saw the release of Celestial Sanctuary’s debut release for Metal Blade Records. The band has conjured a four-track EP, which remains closely tied stylistically to the torture-gore bluntness of their previous album (2023’s Insatiable Thirst For Torment).
The EP begins with the title track, which, from its opening moments, displays obvious improvements from a production standpoint when compared to the band’s previous releases. This is Celestial Sanctuary at their most professional grade thus far, and the band’s instrumental performance on the track demonstrates the same level of ruthless fun that they have become known for at this point. ‘Puddles of You Reflect the Filth Within’, whilst not my favourite track on the EP from a writing standpoint, showcases some really enjoyable guitar tones and I do enjoy the stamping nature of its slower main riff.
This is followed by ‘Choking on the Rotten Seed’ which, however, is my favourite track on the release. The song is a blitzing moment of unrestrained joy, instrumentally dense and malicious. I’d go so far as to say it’s my favourite Celestial Sanctuary track amongst all of their material so far. I’d like to add that for all of the band’s conventional, genre celebratory charm, I feel that CS has occasionally drifted towards a slightly generic sound palette for the style. I’m hoping then, that this particular track represents a nod towards musical explorations to come. The EP closes with the ten-minute ‘Gavage of the Vile’, which begins with a typical level of excited rage for the band, and then indulges in five minutes of extended swan song riff-revelry. The track quietens to a near halt in its final quarter before reuniting us with the song’s central riff once more and a closing guitar solo.
The more exploratory aspects of Visions of Stagnant Blood keep me intrigued for the next chapter of this promising Band’s career. They have talent, passion and clear intent, I’d like to see Celestial Sanctuary continuing to use those attributes to become more of a distinct player amongst their contemporaries. With the added strength of major label facilities at their disposal, I feel fairly confident that the band’s next album could be something quite special, should they reach for it.
