Hoc Est Bellum – Filth Majesty (Blackened Death Noise)

 

I didn’t really feel like thinking this week. We’re already halfway through, and that could change, but before it does I need to show you all how to lay out the smash with pure instinct. Finland’s Hoc Est Bellum (Latin for “This is War”) are another gem to add to the ever-growing list of Finnish metal might, evening out a rather hefty selection of heavy and black with some blackened fucking noise metal (basically). But unlike most, and as their stellar logo implies, the trio relies on an unanticipated amount of sophistication. Filthy Majesty is intricate as hell, but it doesn’t matter if recognize the fact.

   

Expect an ominous intro? You’ll get that. But…as it builds you find yourself surrounded by what verges into harsh noise wall territory before laying out some motherfucking grooving beats, bass that’s goddamn stentorian, and vocals that dip into punk and powerviolence for ultimate variety while it all comes together in a noisy, structured mess. Filth Majesty is one of those releases that’s incredibly easy to engross oneself in due to the sheer brazenness of the Hoc Est Bellum’s approach, but like a fine novel you’ll find details slowly weaving into your thoughts the more you investigate the minutiae of abrasive violence the band creates. Keep it up Finland!

 

Hoc Est Bellum Official Instagram

Written by Stanley, Devourer of Souls

Hoc Est Bellum – Filth Majesty
Time to Kill Records
Cover Art: Kakografia
4.8 / 5