Symphonic Black Metal band WYTHERSAKE present their sophomore album here titled “At War with their Divinity.” Hailing from the USA, they were formed in 2016. The album has 12 songs, and “Purified through Non Existence” is first. It has an energetic and aggressive sound, and the symphonic elements are smartly kept to the background, allowing the contentious and even melodic elements to shine through. “Dancing Plagues of Modern Man” has a nice balance between filth and melody, and song structure is very well put together, with everything in its proper place. I also love the dual harsh vocals…they give the song a deep, cavernous feeling at times.

The title track comes out of the gate with a deep bite and the drummer’s pacing in insane. There is just enough melody here to pique your interest and keep you coming back for more. The guitar work is excellent as well. “Devour the Throne of Grace” is a shorter blast of pure intensity and you begin to wonder how the band can keep up the desperate pace, yet they do it with ease. The harsh vocals are so filthy, you may need a shower after listening to them, and the riffs have a commanding presence. “The Autumnal Passing” has a slow and powerful grind, allowing each element to come through. There are multiple layers at work here, and you can detect each one.

“Chimerical God State Worship” is another strong song that presents a great balance of the two opposing sounds. The filthy Black Metal elements eat at your flesh but the melody acts as a buffer against death. “Agents of Holy Death” has a deep and energetic sound, fueled by dominating guitar riffs, harsh vocals, and some strong backing symphony. “Behind Shadows of Virtue” is another intense offering that the band just blisters through. It’s like a marching army of the undead not stopping on their mission to plunder all of the towns and cities they come across. “Reverse Christ Aeon” closes the album, and I love the church organ…it gives the song some light amidst a very dark shadow. The fantastic lead guitar work also provided credibility to the band’s musicianship.

Overall, this was a winner. It was adventurous for those of us who like some variety in their Black Metal, and traditional enough for those who don’t. They were also fantastic musicians, and the album had a lot of balance among the many elements they put into their music.