(Hells Headbangers Records)

Total Running Time: 42:11

FUNERAL STORM is a Black Metal band from Greece which was created in 2001 under the name RAVEN THRONE which changed to FUNERAL STORM in 2002. Since then they have released 3 split albums and “Arcane Mysteries” is their first complete record. The complex consists of Necroabyssious (VARATHRON), Wampyrion (DISHARMONY, KARKINOS) and Arcania (KARKINOS, ex-AHERUSIA).

The 42 minutes of the album constitute an occult journey of Black Metal in the time when bands of the Greek scene (like ROTTING CHRIST, VARATHRON and NECROMANTIA), released masterpieces and caused a sensation in the global Black metal scene. The songs are traditionally structured and are based on the sound of the Greek Black Metal of 90s, compact with melodies and atmospheric passages with keys that give an epic element in some parts. Very good work has been done on guitars as the rhythm of songs and melodies stay in your mind after the listening of the album. The band also has incorporated in its sound several elements from classic Heavy Metal which blend perfectly with the black character of the songs.

The production of the album is great, with a modern approach that allows the melodies to have the nostalgic sound of 90’s. The album includes nine songs plus a cover of VARATHRON’s song “Flowers Of My Youth”. Also on the track “Wandering through The Abyss”, Magus (NECROMANTIA, PRINCIPALITY OF HELL) appears as a guest.

“Arcane Mysteries” is a very good record of Greek mystic Black Metal, a journey in the mid-90’s and the traditional black sound of the domestic scene that we have missed so much. It’s certainly one of the best releases of the year!

Rating: 8/10

Nikos Manousis