CREST OF DARKNESS is a black metal band from Norway, who formed in 1993. Their latest release, “My Ghost,” is their 9th full-length release; they have also released two EPs. This is my first time hearing the band’s music so I don’t have a frame of reference but “My Ghost,” has impressed me. It’s definitely Norwegian black metal but it’s ferocity and wildness places it on another level. I appreciate that it’s riff-based;every song here is a banger. The drums and bass are very robust, offering a full sound that is a lot more dense than opposed to a thin, raw production. Essentially, this album has meat on the bones, a lot of “oomph.” The tempo is varied enough to keep my attention as well; it isn’t just nonstop speed with endless tremolo riffs.

The album begins with the title track as it fades into existence. The pacing is excellent, especially the use of drums to heighten the tension. It finally explodes in a cascade of hellish, blackened snarls and unstoppable drumming. The guitar tone is fantastic–pure evil.T he song sort of feels like a long intro, though it is a full song. It’s a proper introduction to the album, is what I mean. “The Will of God,” throws one head-banging riff after another. The drums are surprisingly catchy–the interplay between the instruments offers an uncommon synergy. The vocals slither and twist their way through the song, almost like a force of nature. There is almost a punk vibe to the song, especially after the halfway point of the album. Listen to the guitar solo and the riffs that play afterwards—totally 100 percent against the grain attitude.

“Sacrificed To The Sun,” throws a twist in the mix by introducing a trumpet. What? Does this work? Should it work? Why does it work? Yes, Yes, and I don’t know. But it sounds fantastic and a little unnerving, somehow. It’s a great late album respite that keeps the overall sound fresh and exciting. “The Awakening,” is the total opposite, at least in the beginning. It offers a ton of groove and stalwart rhythmic power. The cadence of the blackened vocals is infectious and there is more trumpet. It sounds very natural and doesn’t take away from the song’s intensity or underground style. The guitar solo is the best on the album too and gives the song a well meaning last minute push.

The album ends with “The Ultimate Truth.” Once again, drums that are more catchy than they have any right to be kicks things off. The guitars/bass are one part tornado and another part freight train. From about the halfway point all the way to the five minute mark is one of the most intense passages on the album. CREST OF DARKNESS’ “My Ghost,” is a solid riff-based black metal album that offers a ton of riffs and a few surprises here and there. Recommended.