Year: 2021
Total Time: 01:05:08
Label: Saturnal Records

For the ones who do not know, DIABLERY is a Greek Black Metal band which has already released two EPs, one split, and one full length album.  The time has now come for the band to unveil its second album entitled “Candles”, seven years after their first release. This album is accompanied by a cover artwork expressing exactly the esthetic of this new work.

“Candles” consists of ten tracks, being an interesting mix between Mediterranean and classic northern style of Black Metal.  The songs may seem to be lengthy (7 to 9 minutes), however their flow is beautifully structured, with atmospheric elements and the anticipated explosions that the fans of this genre are expecting.  Nothing is monotone in this work, since the band brings many surprises such as changes in the vocals, at the guitar speeds and melodies and at the drums, without overdoing it or without being considered innovative for Black Metal.

As far as the mix is concerned, it perfectly suits the album.  It is not “blurred” to seem raw but it’s neither too polished so as to deviate from the dark esthetic which the band wants to give to the listeners.  You can listen to every instrument, from the two guitars to bass, an element that is missing from many black metal mixes.

Moreover, the lyrics and the music go hand-in-hand on this album, and if the listener tries to read the lyrics while listening to the whole record, it will bring dark images to mind and transport him to a very “unlighted” world.  In my personal opinion, this album has to be listened to and studied musically and lyrically, in order to be understood. Concluding, DIABLERY with “Candles” go one step further into finding their own musical sound.  The album is a complete experience which should be heard by every fan of the genre.

Rating: 7,5/10
Editor: Stefanos Prodromidis
Related Link: DIABLERY – Official Page