It's never easy to review a spilt EP, as there are at least two bands with different styles that are interacting with each other. In the case of FAAL and VERBUS VERUS, we have two Dutch bands that have been put together, and the message on the back of the sleeve is that this all has been done 'In Memory of Pascal Vervest'. He was one of the guitarists in FAAL and is on the songs that you hear on this split EP.

FAAL is Dutch and means to fail. FAAL hails from Breda, in the southwest of The Netherlands. They existed from 2005 until 2023, and in that time, they were able to give us three albums, an EP and three spilts, including this one. I have not had the honour of hearing any of their music before this EP, so I'm going in like a virgin. They are being classed as a Funeral Doom band with Death Metal influences and I can only say that as far as these songs go, that is quite correct. And I'll be honest, I really like what I am hearing. “The Randomness Of Death” is a very atmospheric song with surprisingly typical Black Metal vocals and the addition a female voice. It will have you raising you awareness while you are listening, as it is a very enticing and interesting song. And a rather good one at that. As for “Silence To Fall”, it is deeper, even more desolate, but with more Death Metal style grunts, which actually work like a treat. It adds to the feeling of desperation, changing your mood fittingly.

VERBUM VERUS are from Tilburg, a place in the south of the Netherlands, and they are classed as a Black Metal band. They have been around since 2006 and released one album 12 years ago. I have to admit I have not heard anything of this band before this EP either, so again I'll be flying blindfolded. The brand of Black Metal that I hear on “Your Word Is One” is that it starts very slow and atmospheric, with good riffing, appropriate drumming, a strong bass and very fitting vocals. It makes for a rather interesting listen, especailly as VERBUM VERUS isn't shy in changing speeds and using breaks. This song really is showcasing all the elements that make VERBUM VERUS into the band they are now, and I like it. Even the part with the long repetition works the way it should. As for “Nine Nails”, it is a lot faster, more direct and straight forward. It will take you deep into the forest and leave you there at the darkest point, before abandoning you to make your own way home, without any light accompanying you.