Spiculum Iratus - Summa Anti-Theologica

With so many bands spewing from the depths of the United States, no black metal bands really stick. They seem to follow the same formula that so many other bands follow and for that reason become forgotten.

Spiculum Iratus are a band that has paved their own path and demands your attention. Orations Recited From the Mouths of the Jawless bursts through your speakers after a short two minute intro chaining you down to a spiraling riff. The snare is battered consistently while being seasoned with interchanging cymbal work. Layered with howling vocals that demand raised fists and chanting along if the vocals were decipherable makes this memorable. The song changes pace with prayers in the vain of Deathspell Omega and once again picks up speed by introducing a more "depressive" chord. Dismantle of the Sensus Divinatus possesses one of the catchiest choruses in black metal. The song begins with a heavy thick atmosphere carried on by the drumming which evolves into shattered glass upon machine gun fire seizing your attention. St. Mlesna is introduced with a slower yet heavier approach, the vocals and guitars interlock with one another. As the guitars hit the higher notes, the vocals become deeper and vice versa.

Summa Anti-Theologica is definitely a leap forward from their previous split release with Bestial Incarnation. The sound is much thicker; the vocals contain effects that complement that album as a whole, blending in with the surrounding sounds. Improvements can be made in the mixing process but considering how underground this band is and the lack of funds that accompany it, the presentation of the album as a whole is amazing.

8.5/10

The dead sea does have a living creature