Sentinels of Shamash
Melechesh

MELECHESH was formed in 1993 in Jerusalem with the intent to forge what the band defines as Mesopotamian Metal. Rooted in black metal and thrash, their sound draws deeply from Sumerian and Mesopotamian mythology, cosmic and occult themes, and incorporates Mediterranean and Middle Eastern musical elements into an extreme metal framework. Over the decades, MELECHESH has evolved into an international musical and cultural phenomenon, known for its distinct identity, scholarly mythological focus, and uncompromising artistic vision. The band remains a singular force within extreme metal, standing apart through both concept and sound.
The EP has three songs, and "The Seventh Verdict" is first. The opening thrashy riff and deep bass guitar notes are chewy…you could bite right into them. The drums are fast-moving, the harsh vocals have sharp claws, and the entire song is just powerful and aggressive. He shouts "retribution, chaos, and death!" "In Shadow, In Light" has a bottom end that is just weighted down with thick, meaty bass notes. Another commanding riff combines with harsh vocals and the song charges into the darkness. There are also some clean vocals, and they have a ritualistic quality to them. The song also seems to gain steam along its path, energized by the things it picks up along the way. "Raptors of Anzu" is the final song, and it begins with whammy bar dives that are followed by a fast-moving riff. Their sense of timing in the song is impeccable, and they hit every sing accent along the rocky path.
This was a powerful album that combined the best of Black and Thrash Metal into a seasoned stew of blood, bones, and tissue. One of the best parts of the album were the heavy bass notes…they really head much of the deep aggression on the album and help it to stay thick. These three songs will burn a hole in your flesh by the end.
8 / 10
Excellent
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production

"Sentinels of Shamash" Track-listing:
1. The Seventh Verdict
2. In Shadows, In Light
3. Raptors of Anzu
Melechesh Lineup:
Melechesh Ashmedi – Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards, Piano, Folk instruments
Lord Curse – Drums, Percussion
Moloch – Guitars, Folk instruments
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