TERRANOVEM Unleash Dark Aggression In Debut Album "Valley Of Pariahs" <REVIEW>

“…delivers exactly what fans of Behemoth and Cattle Decapitation crave…”

As I was walking through the wheat fields, I found this cosplayer standing there with a scythe for some reason. I didn’t think anything of it, but he must’ve been thinking he was looking over the fields of Pelennor or something.

What is there to say about the blackened death metal genre that hasn’t been said before? That wasn’t rhetoric framing, I’m literally asking you.

I do like what the style has to offer. It’s a nice blend of the pulverizing sound of death metal but with the dark and rough tones of black metal that doesn’t grate too much on listeners of both. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! Though black metal tends to take the spotlight in that combination (ironic since black metal fans tend to burn in sun light), and death metal acts more like a foundation.

And that is how I would describe the sound of UK-based Blackened Death Metal band Terranovem, set to release their debut Valley of Pariahs this Friday (March 29th). But, even though the sound is very black metal, these newcomers on the scene have a thing or two to show off when it comes to darkness mixed with aggression.

The opening track, "Circle 9," sets the tone with its high energy and black metal fury. The lead riff is like getting stung by bees, and the guitar tones and bass are particularly commendable. Not bad for a debut album to have decent production. Though the mix did give me a few problems early on in my listen (especially with the ride cymbal) but I did start to get used to it as time went on, so potential ear bleed moment has been averted (to the dismay of some of my TikTok followers I’m sure)

Tracks like "The Eye" and "Death Procession" continue the onslaught with ripping riffs and Kerry King-esque solos that will have listeners banging their heads in approval. The fry screams are particularly noteworthy, sounding mangled and gnarly in the best possible way.

While the album maintains a consistent black metal aesthetic throughout, there are moments where death metal influences shine through, such as in "All Life Falls," with its heavy metal riffing and blast beats that provide a much-needed dynamic shift.

The title track, "Valley of Pariahs," stands out with its gnarly chord progressions and dirty chugs that evoke grimaces of satisfaction. An evil solo adds to the malevolent atmosphere, ensuring that the listener is fully immersed in the abyss.

"Spawn The Leeches" stands out with its atmospheric interlude, pulling back on the guitars to let the vocalist do his trv kvlt thing. Similarly, "Invocation" starts with a primal drum rhythm and suspenseful brass, reminiscent of something inspired by Dune (or maybe the movies are on my mind), before kicking into gear with exotic lead section that add a touch of chill to the otherwise relentless aggression. Still heavy, but in comparison to what we’d been listening to it felt like a nice touch to back up a bit.

"Exiled" brings listeners back to the core of black metal with blast beats aplenty and open riffs that allow the guitars to shine. The album closes with "The Finite Descension," fading in ominously with its main riff before launching into a final display of riffing prowess.

So, what does that say about the album? Well, Valley of Pariahs is a solid debut for Terranovem. From start to finish, Valley of Pariahs delivers exactly what fans of Behemoth and Cattle Decapitation crave: gnarly guitar work, blasting drums, and an unrelenting atmosphere of darkness.

While it may not attract many newcomers to the genre, it's clear that Terranovem isn't aiming for mass appeal. And clocking in at roughly 42 minutes, the album doesn't overstay its welcome. If you’re looking for some gnarly blackened death metal to stare off into the wheat fields with, then Terranovem might be able to help with that.