BELTEZ is a German born Black Metal band that formed in 2002. They have released two previous full-length albums, two demos, and a live album in the 15 years they have been active. They are back with "Exiled, Punished...Rejected", released in June of 2017. This album is in recognition of Wayne Barlowes novel "God's Demons". Using his style to create a musical inspiration dealing with classical literature, death, and ancient Greek Mythologies. This album comes in with six tracks and a listening time of just over 46 minutes.

The opening track, "Prelude", comes in softly with an atmospheric feeling and a deep bass and guitar that steadily adds volume. Then, it's off to the races. We get a sense of the musicianship incased here as the tempo breaks off into speed while the overall sense of dread remains. This track seamlessly moves into "Adamantinarx", track two.

"Adamantinarx", a hefty 9:30 track, comes screaming in, literally. The transition to this track is noted by the first revelation of vocals, screaming their deathly scream. This is traditional Black Metal, with hints of a dark and somber ambience. The vocals are gritty and ghastly, the guitars tend to stay relatively low enhancing the somber atmosphere, the bass is thick and vast, and the drums rhythm change on a dime; sometimes offering break neck speeds and others are more subdued. The music is phenomenal.

Track four, "Algol" is the shortest track, apart from the opener, coming in at 4:38. This one starts off a bit rawer than what we've seen so far. The drums are center stage and feels a bit more acoustic, with heavier bass and guitars. Whispering ensues, but you can feel the buildup coming, similar to the opening track just before the transition, and at 2:25 we are hit with the heavier and deeper sound we've come to expect from these guys. This track is mostly instrumental, with the exception of the whispered peril and the guttural screams that are more instrument than vocal.

The final track, "Soulweaving", is an almost 14 minute beast that transitions flawlessly from the title track "Exiled, Punished...Rejected". The intro to this track has a bit of a Progressive ambience, and at 1:45 the guitars roar in with their natural Black Metal vibe. The drums are quick and immaculately performed. The bass is so heavy, keeping the track drenched in depth. The guitars swing from deep and heavy to buoyant and almost airy. This musicianship is similar to the actual work of soul weaving. The vocals have their gritty and grandiose quality we've witnessed throughout the album. This track is saturated with creativity and talent.

BELTEZ's latest release "Exiled, Punished...Rejected" is pure art. This Traditional Death Metal is unadulterated, pure creativity. The entire album is strong. The musicianship found in this album is of the highest quality. If you are looking for something new, but made in tradition, let this be the album. "Exiled, Punished...Rejected" is excellent.