It's rare that in January I hear a record that I can say with some certainty is going to be in my top 10 of the year, but for this one it looks like it will be the case. Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags is an absolute crusher of a record and one that speaks to the bands songwriting prowess. This is stripped back and gloriously vicious venom spitting blackened thrash metal of the highest tier and the vision that the band brings to the table with these wicked blasphemies is simply delightful. It's black metal done with a taste for blood, and I love it.
Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags isn't all black shining leather and burnished steel though. There is a sense of bombast that helps to tie the whole thing together. Be it the use of bagpipes on the title track or the epic ministrations that help to sculpt some of the longer songs like "The Cursed Carrion Crown", it's clear that Hellripper has evolved immeasurably from their still excellent first recordings. There is a future here like few of the bands peers and it's a fitting reminder of just how talented the band is. The vision is grandiose, but the execution remains potent, monochromatic when it needs to be, but as flashy as needed when the occasion calls for it.
Hellripper have crafted something that is sparkling in its intensity but still devastating in its darkness. It's a record that speaks to their impressive talent and which showcases to listeners that the band is still only at the beginning of their career with so much more to offer. There is a vision here that is impressive and it's hard not to be enamored with where they are trying to take this whole thing. Hellripper prove on Warlocks Grimd & Withered Hags that they are a cut above the rest. Now we have to see if they can continue to unveil darkness for a generation to come.
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