Ghül is a Black Metal solo project from Derby in the UK which is a side project of the prolific Poisonous Reflection. This debut opus entitled ‘Land of Shadow’ is magnificently rendered with wonderfully painted artwork and will soon be released on cassette by UK label Matriarch Records. (Release date to be confirmed)
A rhythmic, ritualistic opening of muffled, anticipation building percussion, deep foreboding chants and ominous, dark tones mark the introduction to this debut album. ‘Under the Banner of the Black Lands’ feels dangerous, lurking and holds a metaphorical anvil about our heads, ready to drop! A perfect opening gambit that leads to the flurry of blast beats and riffs that is ‘Where the Darkness Lies’, an aggressive track with raw toned vocals that sound out from the mire, buried deep within the tapestry of the prevailing bombardment.
What I like about this album is the focus on both the drums and the guitar leads. The vocals are so buried in the mix that they feel like an addition to the hostile atmosphere rather than lyrics to be focused on. I’m not sure that is a deliberate ploy but it works for me regardless.
This album is a stark contrast to the work of Poisonous Reflection; a move away from noise fuelled Black Metal into something more orthodox and second wave inspired, and not only that but its been done well. A relentless build up of pressure that when unleashed is a tidal wave of slightly lo fi Black Metal that not only packs a punch but gives off an unstable, often uneasy atmosphere.
