Dutch Black Metal maestros SATOR MALUS have returned with a delightfully despair-inducing feast of Atmospheric hatred. After a period of silence since the end of 2012, they have finally rewarded our suspense and patience with what could well be their best album yet.

Featuring ex members of THE SPIRIT CABINET, CIRITH GORGOR, WALPURGISNACHT and HOODED PRIEST, this melodic but undeniably heavy protest against the scourge that is humanity is a breath of fresh air for Black Metal fans craving a return to the dark roots of the genre.

The aptly named "Ominous Overture" pulls us in nicely as a sinister acoustic and orchestral piece which really sets the tone for the rest of the album. Combining trademark elements of Black Metal with more harmonious aspects, "Eerie Elemental Eidos" quickly and efficiently drags the listener down to the depths of the depressing abyss, as the weight of the world crushes your chest.

"Seeds of the Plague" is a definite highlight with its malevolent, demonic feel. It will certainly please those who seek a revival of the more traditional Black Metal sound. Nine-minute masterpiece "Endless Cycles of Life and Death" is an anthem of anguish and sadness, which reaches out to grab your still-beating heart and proceeds to tear it out with the agonizing hopelessness of it all. This happens to be my favourite track, and demonstrates some chillingly beautiful clean vocals (which compliment the evil, malignant growls of vocalist Pestus perfectly).

The sheer scale of emotion that this album evokes cannot be understated. It's relentless battering ram is firmly aimed at mankind, it's raw power exacting its brutal revenge and catapulting us into an ocean of sorrow. Quite simply, this album hits you like a ton of bricks. It is intense, lyrically brilliant and gloriously depraved. I highly recommend "Dark Matters" and look forward to future releases with much anticipation!