![lampir – demo i – iii [compilation]](https://www.vm-underground.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lampir-–-Demo-I-–-III-Compilation-cover.jpg "Lampir – Demo I – III [Compilation]")
Info
- Band(s): Lampir
- Label(s): Perverse Homage
- Release Format(s): Compilation, Digital
- Release Year: 2024
- Review Date: January 1, 2025
- Author(s): FelixS
Early this same year Perverse Homage, the long-time companions of Lampir, digitally released a second compilation of demo recordings. With the title ‘Demo I – III’ it leaves little to the imagination in terms of its contents. Back in 2018, the label released a compilation tape containing the first two demos from a year earlier, so ‘Demo I – III’ is basically an updated version with the third demo from 2019 added. Since this is a digital release, so space is effectively unlimited, one wonders why the fourth demo from 2022 has not been added as well.
Although the hype around Lo-Fi Black Metal has died down a bit, the music from that era (2nd half of the 10’s) still exudes its primitive power. Along with bands such as Sanguine Relic, Black Cilice, Unholy Vampyric Slaughter Sect, Orgy Of Carrion and Hand Of Glory, Lampir wore the crown of that unexpected revival of ultimate Raw Black Metal, where the atmosphere and non-existent production prevailed. So this compilation is not only a good overview of what Lampir stands for, it is also a perfectly captured portrait of the era and a tribute to the opulence of the genre from a few years back.
Because the recordings have been left completely intact, thankfully no Patrick W. Engel in sight here, the difference in quality, and hence atmosphere, is easy to hear and feel. Where the first demo, for instance, still sounds quite coherent and accessible to a certain extent, the second one is already a lot rougher. Still, for the seasoned listener, listening back to these demo recordings it is more than clear that Lampir is indeed among the ultimate top in the genre. The haunting atmosphere that merges into a swirling vortex through the rugged riffs and icy screams are of a truly unique level. The third demo again has a much sharper sound and leans more clearly on the later 90’s and early 00’s Black Metal tradition, both in production and in some more pronounced riffs. But whatever jacket the music is put in, Lampir always has a bleak and recognisable spirit. Exactly why it has always been one of my favourite bands from that particular age and scene.
For me personally, it had been a while since I had heard these recordings and it makes it clear to me that it is a shame that the band has been on the back burner for quite some time. With ‘Demo IV’ being released back in 2022, it is now about time we are treated to quality Black Metal from the Lo-Fi niche once again.
