Secrets of the Moon

The Exhibitions EP
Lupus Lounge

9.5/10 – Stephen Hawking metal…

3 tracks; 17:20

I really lucked out this month! The reviews coming across my desk have been A-W-E-S-O-M-E, and Secrets Of The Moon are no exception!!!!! This is my first experience with this 4 piece German outfit, this being only their second release. What we have on display here, are 3 tracks of mid-paced Black Metal. The riffs closely resemble present day Satyricon, but unlike Satyr and crew, SOTM experiment with the odd sample. Take for example track 2 which starts with a funky, looped, programmed drumbeat – it really sets the pace for the rest of the song and compliments the depressed tones pouring forth. The mood on this is very clinical, yet retains an epic, spaced-out vibe. Listening to this made me feel as if I were floating through the deepest reaches of intergalactic space – very cosmic indeed! Vocally, we have two different styles to contend with. The main vocal approach is very reminiscent of Satyr, even kinda sounds like the dude from Khold. The second style, which is similar to shouting, is used sporadically & only as a backing vocal. The production is pristine and the silver embossed packaging looks incredible. Everything on this has been approached in a meticulous fashion & it shows!

I recommend Secrets Of The Moon to anyone who is frustrated by the lengthy lapses between Satyricon releases. Personally, I can’t get enough of Satyricon & SOTM fills that void more than competently.

Oh, almost forgot – this EP includes a cover of Darkthrones ‘Under A Funeral Moon’ and to be completely honest, this version is far superior to the original (I know, what I’ve just said verges on blasphemy). SOTM doesn’t merely spit out a carbon copy of the original; they take the song and infuse it with their eerie Stephen Hawking like vibe… all this on one little EP… my mouth is watering in anticipation of the next full length!!!!!

Jason Deaville