Navigating the immense ocean of sounds that fall under the Heavy Metal banner can be a more than overwhelming task. Arguably 50+ years into the existence of a genre, modern technology and a lack of creativity has spawned an overwhelming amount of more than lackluster Heavy Metal acts trying their best to do…whatveer they’re “doing”. That said, when a band comes along and writes interesting music that still has the ability to be classified as catchy, notes should be taken.
Imperialist’s 2025 release ‘Prime’ is chock full of second wave Black Metal influence, largely of the Swedish influence, from what my ears gather. While this should generally and largely be funneled under the Black Metal category (hear the beginning of ‘Depravity Beheld’), the modern production is crisp and clear and allows the listener to make out all of the soaring guitar melodies and lyrical passages. Even at one listen the annunciation on all of the vocals is incredible and the story that frontman Sergio is telling is clearly understood, and punctuated with an incredibly tight performance by the entire band.
Sonically, the largely traditional song structures make all of the frantic Swedish Black Metal riffing incredibly memorable and clear, which are all accented by several glimmering guitar leads tastefully placed throughout the record. Were I to compare Imperialist’s sound to another act, I’d have to largely point to Swedish heroes Necrophobic, Dissection and Sacramentum (the latter of which Sergio has performed live with!) Galloping tremolo guitars and bass all driven by blasting drums have the entire record feeling frantic and urgent at nearly all times. Some may yearn for a more “in the pocket” Black Metal record, but the upbeat nature of the songs keeps the entire record moving forward at all times, and when the songs do “open up” (see ‘I A.M.’), there is more than enough room for all instruments to shine in their own way.
A decade of ripping Black Metal existence on the west coast has treated Imperialist well.
