"Plague Beasts," the newest release from Black Metal band CLOAK OF ALTERING can be summed up in two words - alluring and fascinating. CLOAK OF ALTERING is familiarly more Black Metal than Mories de Jong's more orchestral works. "Plague Beasts" is just as intense and shocking as Gnaw Their Tongues. There is percussion, but no sign of drums, almost disappointing from someone who has such a strong reputation.

The main thing I found interesting throughout the album was the small details, though they're only heard when listening closely. Some interesting vocals and melodic synth elements are heard, but that wasn't enough to impress me. It was hard to even listen from start to finish. What's lacking is utter extremity that I was expecting. Also, the 'symphonic' elements can seem cliché. The creations of De Jong normally shock me as they are powerful works of psychological excess, but I just wasn't necessarily awestruck after listening through this release.