Cénotaphe - Monte Verità

For those in the know, Cénotaphe has quickly become of France's premier voices in black metal. From their debut demo 2016 to 2019 Cénotaphe contributed to 5 different EP's, splits and compilations. Now they are bringing their first ever full length on Ossuaire Records (With the LP done via Nuclear War Now!) This is a masterful offering, a bombastic release that is brilliantly produced with touches of choral vocals, arcane frills and all sort of juicy moments of pure black metal slaughter. What more could you want out of a record?

I think what gets me about Cénotaphe is that they really reflect the French aesthetic in their music. Their compositions, all sung in French, call to mind the works of bands like Blut Aus Nord. Their vision is distinct and exciting, making Monte Verita a thrilling listen. This is a record that operates on a variety of levels, featuring freakish shrieks and anthemic moments of introspection. It speaks to the bands capacity as composers and the sheer breadth of what they have been able to bring in. The intensity here is reminiscent of their countrymen in Regarde Les Hommes Tomber, but they frequently bring more than even that to the table.

Monte Verita eagerly leaps from peak to peak in what is one of my favorite releases from my home country in a hot minute. It's hard not to be enamored with the intensity of the songwriting and Cénotaphe clearly are passionate about creating a black metal sound that is transcendent and yet never forgets its roots. Potent clean vocals sit next to bestial shrieks - it's awesome. Poetic and powerful, but always with the reminder that they will eagerly slit your throat, Cénotaphe have percolated into something wholly unique and wonderfully unforgettable here.

Find them on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/lecenotaphe/