Year: 2020
Total Time: 24:14
Label: Terratur Possessions
A Norwegian Black Metal alliance between TAAKE and WHOREDOM RIFLE for their new split titled “Pakt”. I do not think there is any need for recommendations for TAAKE, as they are one of the most famous Black Metal band of Norway, under the guidance of their unique frontman, Host. As for WHOREDOM RIFE, they were created in 2014 by V. Einride (GORGOROTH’s live drummer), have released two full length and two EPs, and their sound can be described as “traditional” Black Metal. TAAKE in “Pakt” have a new song and a cover of SISTERS OF MERCY’s “Heartland”, while WHOREDOM RIFE have two new compositions.
TAAKE’s side starts with” Ubeseiret”, a Black n Roll style song with Host’s characteristic vocals. The guitars have an energetic lead role, influenced by Post Punk and Hard Rock that give “Ubeseiret” a modern Black Metal approach, while the acoustic guitars in the middle create an epic feeling until its folk ending. Experimental and interesting composition without the classic Black Metal forms. Next is SISTERS OF MERCY’s cover song in which the Norwegians have adapted to their sound, leaving TAAKE’s personal touch on the song with the charmingly dirty sound of sludgy bass having the first role in the mix.
WHOREDOM RIFE participate in the “Pakt” with “From Nameless Pagan Grave” and “En lenke smidd i blod”, which sound a little different from TAAKE’s song, as they are closer to the so-called “true cult” Black Metal sound. The first composition is quite sharp and chaotic while “En lenke smidd i blod” moves in a mid-tempo rhythmic with the guitars giving an epic atmosphere. Both compositions are excellent, but without any special philosophy behind them as you know exactly what you going to hear.
“Pakt” is a high-quality Black Metal split which makes you hungry for more songs after every listening. WHOREDOM RIFE’s compositions are, I would say, some of the best they have ever written, without being particularly original. TAAKE are moving into more open-minded paths with a song that could had been on their last album “Kong Vinter” because of its musical approach and riffs. “Pakt” is a split that deserves to be in every Black Metal collection, not only for its collectible value (released in 10″ LP version) but also for its musical quality.
Rating: 7,5/10
Editor: Nikos Manousis
Related Link: WHOREDOM RIFE – Facebook Page
TAAKE – Facebook Page
