Five years after Something Wicked Marches In, Vltimas threatens to unleash their sophomore album, Epic. Founded in 2015, Vltimas is an international supergroup with a lineup that is simply too good to be true. Vltimas consists of ex-Morbid Angel’s David Vincent on vocals; ex-Mayhem’s Rune “Blasphemer” Eriksen on guitars; and Cryptopsy’s Flo Mounier on drums. These legends live in the US, Portugal, and Canada respectively, though Blasphemer is obviously originally from Norway. Ex-Dodecahedron’s Ype TVS of the Netherlands, who has been serving as a live member of Vltimas, joined the band for the first time in the studio during the recording of Epic. A mix of black and death metal among other influences, Epic represents a major victory for Vltimas’ expanding team.
The revered Blasphemer is arguably black metal’s greatest guitarist as well as an unsurpassed composer. In 2023, Blasphemer amazed audiences with his return to pure black metal, RUÏM’s Black Royal Spiritism – I – O Sino da Igreja. That album proved that Blasphemer is still a reigning king of his craft. Epic likewise showcases Blasphemer’s musical superiority. Epic is clearly and immediately recognizable as a partial product of his genius. Blasphemer creates atmospheres that are deeply disturbing yet gorgeous. He immediately sets an ominous tone on the opening instrumental, “Volens Discordant.” This gives way to Epic’s triumphant title track, which begins with more haunting guitar work. Blasphemer certainly delivers all of the dark magic that we are conditioned to expect from him. His solos, of course, provide cause for wonder.
Vltimas boasts enviable chemistry. Blasphemer, Mounier, and Vincent were together in the same space when they wrote Epic. That really shows in the result. We imagine that the fact that Blasphemer and Mounier played together with Nader Sadek enhanced their rapport. Mounier’s aggressive drums are spot-on throughout Epic. Vincent’s concrete presence stands in beautiful juxtaposition to the otherworldly feeling of Blasphemer’s riffs. Vincent helps make Epic easily accessible to the metal masses. Vincent exudes the dauntless air of a Roman army commander as he tackles themes like honor: “We spread the gospel of the warriors divine.” Yes, Vincent projects strength and wisdom. His delivery is crushing, yet his words are clearly distinguishable. Vincent’s dramatic talent shines on this record and especially on tracks like “Nature’s Fangs.” His heavy metal influences contribute to making Epic a unique and enjoyable experience that stands apart from other blackened death efforts. You can’t listen to Vincent’s vocals here without picturing them filling coliseums. After all, Vltimas is an amazing band to witness in concert. As at gigs, Ype TVS gives a great performance.
We should note that Portuguese guitarist João Duarte of Corpus Christii visited Vltimas in the studio and provided some feedback. Although Duarte did not play on Epic, the group hopes that he will do so on their next release. The highly skilled Jaime Gomez Arellano not only produced Epic, but he also handled mixing and mastering. A true master, Gomez Arellano collaborates with the likes of Paradise Lost. Gomez Arellano’s philosophy paired with that of Vltimas ensured that Epic was not overproduced and that the sound turned out just right. The album does not suffer from the use of unnecessary effects or any similar ills. Rather, it is an extremely organic release.
In conclusion, Epic has exceptional momentum that persists from beginning to end. This remarkably cohesive nine-track offering is a must-have that is bound to earn much acclaim from fans and critics alike.
Vltimas’ new album Epic arrives on March 15th via Season of Mist. Order your copy here.
Rating: 4.5/5
