Metal maniacs, rejoice! I am proud to present to you: IRAE; signed via Purodium Rekords, hailing from Portuguese grounds - performing Black Metal, on their debut EP entitled: "The Old Ways" (released December 25th, 2019).

Since formation in 2002; the soloist in question has a large repertoire of Black Metal at his disposal, I am introduced to his 1st EP entitled: "The Old Ways". 6 tracks ranging at around 15:27... IRAE arrange an intricately designed formula of heavy-hitting Black Metal developments. Beginning the record with the cryptic introduction: "Initiation"; in which conveys a somewhat progressively technical opening in a bizarre concept of rain & thunder, until a darkened instrumental direction brings forth cleanish vocals while implementing high-pitched screams & throaty raspiness. Until "Above The Stars Of God" demonstates amplified adrenaline & boistrously bouncy gnarliness. Distributing distorted atmosphere; embellishing on experimental extremity, immersed into a blast beating frenzy converged with filthy versatilities while striking with sulphurous tremelo picking that manifest rawly rough vehemence.

Consisting of an unknown lineup; "The Old Ways" I can confirm is a solo project, showcasing a blistering barrage of flamboyant Black Metal screams - profusely robust pipes & torturously venomous lungs lacerate a borderline foundation of shrieking savagery. Revolved with sinisterly primitive cords, elementing bloody momentum, while manifesting meticulously monsterous rhythms that thunder with meaty punchiness. "Adoração ao Fogo" creates dexterously dynamic virtuosity; quintessentially oscilliating with rapidly swift nimbleness, tight substance & organic pandemonium. Portraying old-school Black Metal mayhem, occult themes & razor-sharp solidities. Infectiously injecting audible bass deadliness, steely thumpiness & pulsating precision - shredding with rip-roaring melodies while variating with rumbling yet melancholic chunkiness.

"Martyr" fabricates fiercely harmonic haste; intensely chugging, frolicking & galloping with weighty noise terror that ruthlessly subjugates speedy snappiness while relentlessly detailing grinding fretworks that provides vibrantly quirky momentum. The hammering drums batters into a fuzzy maelstrom of rambunctiously riveting pulverizations, while triggering volatile ramifications...as "Night At The Graveyard" contrasts distinctively distinguished engagements of outrè panache and evil empowered dimensions. Harnessing an enriching hybrid of sonically seamless outbursts that shroud this ritual with jumpy malevolence, oppressive madness & total ruination. Overall concluding "The Old Ways" with the hardened hymm, and crunchy execution of "Open Tombs"; I am compelled to that IRAE cerainly excelled himself here.

Bottom line; "The Old Ways" is definitely an interesting discovery, IRAE established a consistent Black Metal release & while outdoing himself alone is indeed an incredible as well as remarkably talented feat - I can certify fans of this sub-genre will spin this a few times - newcomers, however...approach with either an open mind or caution.