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This, the full-length debut from Canadian black metallers Feral Horde is without a doubt one of the better debuts that this reviewer has heard. Following on from their impressive demo, put out in 2002, which first exposed listeners to the band's full-of-potential, raw-yet-melodic approach to black metal, 'Progressive Downfall' comes across as a natural progression of that sound. It is clear that the band's songwriting skills have improved as well as the musicianship. In fact, the guitar playing on this release is of exceptional quality, it must be said. This is especially evident on the tracks "Defrocked" and "Blessed In Sin" on which the guitars offer more than a few hints of traditional metal influences, with the latter perhaps being the best cut on this disc.Two songs that originally appeared on the demo, "Sanity's Mask"and "Tool Of Damnation" are also included here, although in a slightly updated fashion yet no less punishing.

The overall material is quite strong, something that is pleasantly surprising considering that this is only the band's first full-length offering. And even more surprising is the fact that, aside from one track being somewhat weaker than the rest, there aren't any major flaws on this record. The drumming, in places, is not of a particularly high standard and is overshadowed by the very solid guitar work on more than a few occasions. But, other than this minor weak point and also perhaps that the demo tape's strongest song "Holy Vermin" is not included here,there are only good things to be said about this release. Even people who are generally not very keen on black metal should give this album a chance. You just might like it.