Ascension — Consolamentum

You can say what you will about black metal but they do come up with interesting cd covers (see above).  As to what’s inside those covers can be hit or miss.  Ascension was formed quite recently (2007 to be precise) and have thus released a demo and ep so far.  Consolamentum is the first full length for the relative newcomers.  As to the musicians in the band, that is a bit of a mystery.  Rumors abound, but as no one has confirmed or refuted being a member there’s not much to say.

What we can say is that Ascension is a band from Germany that is influenced/inspired by many a black metal band.  They have considerable music ability, both musically and compositionally, and they have the gift of vagueness (at least to who is actually in the band).  They seem to follow the path set by bands like Deathspell Omega, Aosoth, Funeral Mist and fellow countrymen Secrets of the Moon; that is to write lyrics that have occult leanings but are presented in an esoteric manner

Eight songs are given to us, the range from barely controlled chaos, “”Grey Light Sibling” and “Amok” to more dark ambient and avant guard sound as on “Open Hearts” and “Consolamentum”.  The pieces that really shine here are “Rebellion Flesh” with slower tempo rhythms that creep and crawl, the drumming that is intricate yet subtle and the well used combination of clean and harsh vocals.  Add to this “Grant Me Light” which has break neck drumming, a fantastic guitar solo and intriguing time changes.  Underneath the chaos there is always that bit of harmony and melody which is found within each of their songs.

Vocally it’s quite striking.  You can unquestionably hear inspiration from Attila Csihar and Arioch from Funeral Mist.  The voice here is used as an instrument, not just to soar over the accompanying din but to be an integral part of it.  While Ascension may not be presenting black metal in a new or different way what they do accomplish is creating music that is memorable, and with black metal that’s quite a feat.