VALDRIN is a U.S.-based melodic black metal band known for their intricate compositions, storytelling prowess, and immersive soundscapes. Since their 2010 inception, the Cincinnati-based band has been focusing on building their own narrative, skillfully crafting an elaborate sci-fi saga. “Apex Violator” is the latest chapter in the ongoing epic. The album has five songs, and “Poison Soul Vents” is first. The opening tones are harrowing, as if you are watching the introduction scene to a gory movie, and are just waiting for the first splatters of blood. From there, the aggression is restrained just enough, in favor of a more palatable soundtrack, which favors frightening tones.

“Black Imperial Smoke” has more aggressive and contentious tones, but the sound is still very harrowing. The smoke is like a monster to me, slithering under your nose, and rising up and swallowing victims before they see it. “Ignite the Murder Shrine” is another torturous offering. I picture a shrine in the abyss that has been covered so much in blood over the years, the hue is as black as night. We can also hear some of the intricate guitar work here as well, not the usual wall of sound that often accompanies the genre. Who said Black Metal can’t be inventive? “The Muttering Derelict” is really the first break we get from some of the madness, but it doesn’t last long. The riffs are thick, bossy, and discernable, but also energetic and raving mad. There are complicated patterns, but they remain accessible.

“Veins of Akasha” is the final cut. Hindu philosophy state that akasha (aether) is the fifth physical substance, which is the substratum of the quality of sound. This is a complex, deep, and immersive sound that builds a wall around the listener that it slowly squeezes inwards, until you are crushed by it. Overall, this was a wicked listening experience. I dub the album “thinking man’s Black Metal,” because the compositions are not only frightening, but they come from four talented musicians who know how to tell a story with their music, and tell it well. With each song, you are lost further and further into the album, until you take that fateful step when it’s too late to go back. In many ways, you don’t mind, as your innate evil surfaces and pushes all reason and humanity back down.