Over the past three decades, ROTTING CHRIST's brand of music has evolved continuously and has created its own identity as a progressively dark and ambient kind of metal. "The Heretics", released last February 15 via Season of Mist is their album no. 13. If you have enjoyed their 2013 release "Κατά τον δαίμονα εαυτού" and 2016's "Rituals", this album is guaranteed to satisfy you.

The dark ambient sound that they have established over a long span of time is the strongest foundation of this album. It's got a very dark and heavy atmosphere created by the fusion of mid-paced tempos and a constantly thumpy drumming. It also possesses a haunting sound that was provided by the solid bass and the occasional choirs in the choruses.

The first issue I see on this 43-minute long album is its tendency to be repetitive and monotonous. While it definitely creates a black abyss of music, it refuses to give room for progression. Still because of this issue, it is very difficult to differentiate/separate the songs from the others. The catchiness and memorability is also sacrificed. Although, there is one song here that outshines the rest, and that is the single "Fire, God and Fear" where they displayed their progressiveness and where the energy is a bit higher. It also has lots of sick breaks and a series of electric riffs like bursts of dark energy coming out of a cosmic black hole. It is also the only song with a decent and clear guitar solo.

Songs "In The Name of God" and "Hallowed by thy Name" are the most repetitive songs, making it too boring. However, despite the "boring" sound, it has strong riffs and a bit catchy drums. "Vetyr Zlye" is a good song, with a considerably higher intensity and tension buildup. It has an inclusion of female vocals. The occasional use of choirs and chanted vocals give a slight Batushka-like feel to the album.

Putting it all together, "The Heretics" is a good addition to ROTTING CHRIST's 30-year portfolio. While not everyone might get it, its monotonous approach is what makes it a decent release, establishing a dark and heavy sound from the beginning and never looked back.