Sweden. The dark and frozen northern forests. Somewhere in the depths a ritual is taking place, led by the aggressive and intense MALAKHIM. The young five-piece band have just dropped their first LP, "Theion". The artwork is an immaculate example of watercolour art mixing in the genre, and actually makes for a change to the usual Black Metal stereotypes.

Opening the album is "There Is A Beacon". This instantly lays down a statement, with its depth, rolling riffs that entice the listener in, the fire at the ritual calls you in closer. That is before the onslaught of E's vocals takes over and again, I am caught in a trance. It is Black Metal, but not as you may know it, there is an edge that transcends the typical stylings and creates this individual take on the genre.

The intensity continues into "Merciless Angel Of Pestilence" with hard hitting riffs, breathless rhythms and that aggressive vocal line that polishes off the performance. "Slither O Serpent" takes the foot off the gas, but what it may have changed in overall pace does not detract from the fantastic music that is projected from my speakers, especially the delightful guitar runs than just prick your ears occasionally.

"Chalice Of Ruin" once again charges through at breakneck speed, delivering another solid performance. As we reach the second half of the album, more and more unsuspecting victims have been drawn deeper into the forest and to take place around the fire. "His Voiceless Whisper" grabs your attention, the pounding drums from VT, the subtle melodies that accentuate in the guitar tracking just continue to deliver this mesmerising music.

The ritual continues to build; into "Hammer Of Satan" and through "Splendour Of Stillborn Stars" before coming to an almighty conclusion in "Theion". I will not give to much away for the finale, but everything draws to a perfect end. What are you waiting for? Join the ritual and see for yourself.