SEMARGL was born in Kiev somewhere around 1997 and, since then, has delivered three albums that breath a hearty Black Metal atmosphere having Christianity as the main target. Now, if you don't like your music served with religious flavors then move to the next album review unless you like to wander around the left hand path. Nevertheless, SEMARGL have already released "Ordo Bellictum Satanas" as the fourth addition to their b(l)ack catalogue.

Black Metal is the label outside this album but as "Credo Sacrifice" enters you will find yourself thinking of bands like BEWITCHED that liked mixing their music with traditional Heavy Metal markings. Indeed, the minimal guitar riff dominates the track while the distorted vocals hold the bonds with the Black Metal scene. The same recipe applies to the next almost teutonic "Credo Possess" that sounds totally evil while it reveals some late SATYRICON influences. "Credo Revolution" is next in line and will surprise every listener with the electronic sounds and the almost industrial groove that I bet will make many traditional Black Metal fans frown especially during the female backing vocals. It is clear that this Ukrainian band tries to do more than a simple Black Metal album by adding many "foreign" elements. Actually, this effort has taken the band far from the identity introduced in the previous albums like "Attack On God" or "Satanogenesis". One of the most profound changes can be found in the vocals which have discarded the heavy distortion underlining the drifting away tendency. "Flaming Rain" is a killer surprise with clean guitar sounds, an electronic groove and Nera's (from DARZAMAT) beautiful timbre. The keyboard melodies create a tension that eventually bursts out as the distortion and the growling vocals enter.

Without thinking like a genius one can realize that this album will divide the fans of SEMARGL into two groups; the first will stick to the first albums while the second will try to understand the band's new approach and find things to enjoy. As far as myself is concerned, I belong in none of the above groups since I take the music as it comes and judge it only if it fits my personal taste. I also believe you should follow my path..