KATHAROS is a black metal band from Sweden to who formed in 2006. "Of Lineages Long Forgotten," is their second full length album; they also released a demo in 2007. I could just say if you like EMPEROR, you'll like this band....and end the review there. But even if you are well versed in that band's discography, it would be a disservice to KATHAROS and this wonderful album to not go into more detail. This is a massive album, full of complexities, may layers and moving parts. From the first note, to the last it is obvious that a lot of care, thought and passion went into the songwriting. So, no, this isn't yet another EMPEROR rip off but rather a band that may wear their influences on their sleeves but also know who they are and what they want to accomplish.

There is basically two worlds, almost two separate bands, within the seven tracks and forty eight minute run time. On one hand you have technically proficient black metal with all the searing rage that comes along with that. On the other hand, there is a a constant barrage of lush symphonics that exist alongside the black metal, as just an important element to the songs as any of the other instruments.

"Those Hornclad," opens with the impending advances of an approaching enemy. The enemy attacks, sending out speedy double bass, caustic riffs and blackened shrieks. Despite the complexities, the sound isn't too muddled and the songs remain riff based. I wish the vocals were more up front in the mix but their placement more towards the back also serves to make them more part of the instrumental fabric. The symphonics of the song don't serve as a mere back drop regulated to just enhancing the atmosphere—they are the atmosphere and provide as much driving force as anything.

The title track begins with the drums very military in their precision. The keys begin simple, hanging back to allow the drums their commanding presence. The song explodes and everything comes together.  The instruments have their individual paths but they also manage to stick together. It is a big wall of sound but one made because each element of the song has its own place and job to do. I love how this song can go from intense, violent black metal to sweeping and grandiose tendencies without ever losing momentum or that razor sharp edge it welds so deftly.

"Lay Yersinian Siege," had a cinematic heart—the opening moments paint huge, vivid pictures. While the symphonics conjure images within the mind, the black metal bands that head. The track is chaotic yet layered with potent beauty. The mid section is somber keys and heartfelt tones that gives way to unbridled fury. This song shows how adept at combining different worlds the band is. The ending is potent and thunderous riffs rolling across a painted expanse. "Most Dread Portent," begins methodical and slower paced, a build up to the faster paced direction that soon evolves seamlessly from the abyss. The guitars have a lot going on, changing and brewing a constant new life without being distracting or taking away from the other aspects.

There is just a certain approach and way this song moves along—with purpose but a purpose towards the single goal of perpetual movement. KATHAROS' "Of Lineages Long Forgotten," is a complicated, well built album that will grab you from the get go yet pull you back in for many repeated listens.