The Bottom Line
- A return to their black metal roots.
- Lyrics a bit simplistic.
Description
- Released April 4, 2006 on Sanctuary Records.
- Drummer Antton is Cronos' brother.
- This is the band's 11th studio album.
Guide Review - Venom - Metal Black
So how are they doing in 2006? Their last studio album was released six years ago and was average at best. Venom decided to return to their roots, and as you can guess from the album title, it is in the vein of their early work. Cronos and company have managed to capture that vintage sound without sounding nostalgic.
Part of that vintage sound is raw production. It is not polished at all, which actually gives it more punch. The riffs are simple, but catchy. Guitarist Mykvs (Mike Hickey) delivers them with power and conviction and even sneaks in a few quick solos. Venom's black metal side is shown in the lyrics. With song titles like "Antechrist" and "Lucifer Rising" it's clear their allegiance hasn't changed.
25 years after their formation Venom are taking it back to the old school, and although there might be a few awkward moments it's still a fulfilling and successful trip.
