• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

Lunging into darkness on Non-Existence, Psilocybe Larvae explore the unseen and maybe the unthinkable. Dark Harvest Records presents one of its latest signings, a band specializing in Ambient Extreme Metal. Whether it's Death, Gothic and even modern Black Metal, this label from Russia will provide the outlet.

Over the years, Psilocybe Larvae have suffered from the inconsistencies associated with multiple lineup changes. The only constant has been the band's main writer and vocalist, Vitaly. The band has released three studio albums in its 14 year history. Non-Existence, from 2008 and their most recent, is also their best to date.

Showcasing a special kind of Dark and Ambient Metal, Non-Existence evokes the sounds of bands like Paradise Lost, mid-era Rotting Christ, Tiamat and a heavier, extreme version of Pink Floyd. Psilocybe Larvae explore different mixes in metal music. Their songwriting, always with darkness as their guide, features unexpected rhythms. The album flows through heavy and soft riffs, icy cold keyboards and diverse vocals that range from clean chorals to semi-brutal, yet well delivered growls.

Non-Existence, and other albums like it, established a kind of Extreme Metal that is a rather fun listen. It is not too brutal, yet not too soft. The darkness that engulfs it is a mere enchantment and, with its semi-melodies, is worthy of repeated spins. The themes are not that understandable and leave behind questions of what went on or what might happen afterwards. Even if Non-Existence is not the epitome of this kind of music, it is still a gem and overall metal universe.

Originally released in 2008 through a different label, Dark Harvest Records snapped up Psilocybe Larvae and released the album in America. The album displays huge potential from a skilled band that, with hope, will keep their current line-up intact for their fourth release.

Highlights (filled with obscurity and murkiness): "Condemnation" (the best song on the album with great melodies, vocals and an amazing aura), "Non-Existent World," "Asylum" (great diversity), "Sleepwalkers," "Cold Desert of Eternity" (so cold you could freeze), and "Great Silence."

Additional Information

- 2009 re-issue on Dark Harvest Records reviewed here.