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This is the type of Black Metal I really enjoy, so it goes without saying that Frigidiis Apotheosia has been very popular in my CD player.

Celestia is the creation of European composer Sir Noktugeiist Mortt who, in 1995, wanted to have a melancholic Black Metal act with a different and original approach. Even though this is only the second full-length, numerous demos, EPs, promos MCDs etc...were produced in the meantime. Original doesn't mean noisy/off the wall type of music, quite the contrary, because the music of this album is melodic, accessible and also relaxing. This is not of the over the top fast and aggressive variety, with just a few double basses and blast beats, to my greatest pleasure. Actually, the usual pace is kind of moderate and some parts have even a calmer and relaxing tempo. Crafty use of keyboards found here and there adding a nice as well as darkly atmospheric touch. I really enjoyed the fact that classical guitars were present on half of the songs, always pleasant to hear while suiting the ethereal Black Metal scenery. The sound production is very good, so strong bass, punchy drums, distorted guitars and the excellent raspy vocals were given their fair treatment.

Only great music to be heard with my favorite tracks being "A Regrettable Misinterpretation of Mournfulness", "Death of the Lizard Queen" and the superb title track.