Scorched earth policy now in crimson spewing, altar enhanced effect Hell's own minion have ascended to spread their message, aided by the stench of pig's blood and all manner of rotten carrion. Heaven’s false celestial veil has been lifted and storms strike the earth in a maddening flurry. From the grand spires of eternity all that is seen is a flaming cinderblock glowing like a humongous, fiery ember and somewhere, faintly stirring in the distance is the serpentine blessed musical devilry of an obscure Norwegian entity. Mission Armageddon is now in full effect.

There is a new entry under the word Subterranean in the infernal dictionary and it goes by the quizzically strange name of Watain. Just what the moniker means I cannot say but I do know what it represents-Pure, unbridled rancor from the very depths of Hell. This audible document not only sounds filthy yet somehow manages to make you feel like you just bathed in a coffin filled with vomit, angel’s blood, chunks of rancid sheep's flesh and every bit of vile and atrocious sin the world has ever conceived. Satan’s flames char your fingers before you even slip the disc in the stereo. Yes, it is that evil and to reap your very soul is its main objective. Like a scrupulous demon immersing in serendipity lead track "Legions of The Black Light" creeps up on you, impending as a tornado that strikes without warning, ready to claim victims. Admittedly any churlish assumptions are blown to smithereens right from the start as this song not only incites devious midnight ritual but its intent clashes violently with celestial oppression. In less complex terminology, every sinner in Gehenna writhes in anticipation when summoned by this ditty.

With a riff ominous enough to inspire damage title track "Sworn to the Dark" can melt crosses at 50 paces and rightly so as God would not be able to utter forth enough muster to retaliate. E's vocal vomitations are another factor that set Watain apart from the mass of carbon-copied mimes saturating the scene. His enunciations, particularly on "Legions of the Black Light" and "Satan's Hunger" are a mongrel cross breed between a rabid dog and Jon Nodtveidt, channeling himself through the singer as his familiar here on earth. I also notice a stirring resemblance to the respectfully lamented and revered Dissection in the melodicism that Watain utilizes. Especially during the later halves of "Legions of the Black Light" and primarily "Under the Cenotaph" which showcases a harmony lead not many worlds away from what the Gothenburg dissidents conjured on their stunning swansong "Reinkaos". Exquisite music, enrapturing stage visage (Dead mice anyone??), old meets new school histrionics and wafting emissions of putrefaction.....Why?  Because this is Black Fucking Metal...that's why!!