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I have to assume there is some legal reason why Russ felt like he had to dissolve Absu and then create this band immediately afterward with a much more unwieldy name but essentially the same sound. Absu/Apsu/Abzu have had a rather weird history, with some acknowledged classic works in their past, including the monumental Tara way back in 2001. Over the years McGovern’s ego has grown almost as impressively as his skill behind the drum kit, and the time he spent in Melechesh only improved his songwriting skills and technical ability. Absu’s song titles and themes became ever more obtuse and esoteric, and yet the basic Black/Thrash chaos of their sound never varied much.

All that is to say that this sounds pretty much exactly like you expect it to if you have followed Absu through the decades. Chaotic, flailing Blackened Thrash is what you get here, with Proscriptor’s highly technical yet frantic drumming that sounds sloppy but isn’t. The other members don’t really stand out, but the production as a whole is solid and lets you hear what is going on. If you have enjoyed Absu’s recent albums, then this is a no-brainer, but I really think this is a cut above them overall.