Aeternus Prophet is no stranger to the Ukrainian Extreme Metal scene, having released 2 full-lengths and a split prior to ‘Ruthlessness’. So ‘Ruthlessness’ is their 3rd album? Well, it is their 3rd entry for sure, but it’s a remastered version of their debut album ‘Безжальність’ with English lyrics. Originally released in 2012, it falls under the description of ancient Death and Black Metal according to the bio, which raised my hopes initially, but they were quickly dashed.
The music is mid-tempo groovy Death Metal with occasional thrashy touches, and it does incorporate some Black Metal ideas, like in ‘Millions of Nameless Graves’. The vocals range from Death to Black Metal growls, but don’t expect any high-pitched screams. This album sounds like something I’d expect from a late 90s demo. For me, this album lacks the aggression, darkness, and essential ingredients of both Death and Black Metal that would make me want to listen to it again.
Frankly, I don’t think it warranted a re-release and could have remained a relic of 2012.
