You know, I always thought melody fits the best in Black Metal, at least if we're looking at strictly extreme sub-genres. There's something about it's foundational atmosphere and overall being that just fits so well with melody. Sure, it's supposed to be hard-hitting, but with more emotion. Sure, it's supposed to be heavy, but with a poetic and vulnerable side. That's why I always preferred Black Metal over Death Metal. And lucky me, I think I found the perfect Black Metal record for my taste in the genre.

SERCATI is a Melodic Black Metal band from Belgium, Pepinster formed in 2009. This is their third full-length, after 2011's and 2014's "Tales of the Fallen" and "The Rise of The Nightstalker (Tales of The Fallen Part 2)" respectively. Most of the riffs, or the music itself in general, is not really fast at all on this LP. Especially not the typical Black Metal parts.  I was actually kind of surprised with how slow they were. The vocals are the most hardcore shit you'll ever hear. It's not the more calm, quieter screaming you'll hear in IMMORTAL or GEHENNA. Instead, it's really passionate and has a great sense of both intimidation and emotion.

I really enjoyed the first three tracks, but the song where I realized this album was something special was "Under The Velvet Mask". The flute used in that song is so amazing and beautiful, it just fits in so well.  Words just cannot describe it, you just have to listen to it. "An Appointment Between Hell and Heaven" is also pretty great with its acoustic/spoken word intro, organs and overall the really melodic Black Metal riffs.  Not to mention the careful and self-aware songwriting, and honestly, the care that was put into composing these 38 minutes just warms my heart. This is one of the best Black Metal records you'll hear all year. Please do yourself a favor and check it out.