Burrowing into swirling, surreal and nightmarish scenarios, STRIGIFORM is a new entity from the void, exhibiting members of VERTEBRA ATLANTIS, AFRAID OF DESTINY and THIRST PRAYER, among the others. The Italian band's debut album, "Aconite" focuses on an intricate and incisive approach to songwriting, characterized by unorthodox riffs and a particular attention to the internal dynamics of the tracks, in order to maximize their impact. As one could infer by delving into its sole musical realm, "Aconite" is a one-way invitation into a rapaciously inner-focused expedition, inside of which is contained the utmost degree of both psychological and emotional vehemence we could possibly muster," guitarist Saprovore explains. "Nearly half a decade was necessary for constructing and refining this entity. Letting it gush out of its womb feels like exposing internal organs and bones, as the artwork may suggest. Perhaps this could inspire your appetite."

The album has six songs, and "Adamant" is first. It is dark, heavy, aggressive, and chaotic out of the gate, but there are also brief atmospheric passages. The sound is harrowing, almost like you are witnessing things you should not see. The reprieves are just long enough for you to catch your breath between the torture sequences. Seguing into "Scorched and Hostile," the torture continues. Everything is downtuned so that it sound even more weighted and more contentious. There are also brief leads and quieter passages that provide some eeriness to the scene. "Obsecration" means a very earnest or desperate appeal; a solemn prayer or plea, often directed toward a higher power or authority. In keeping with the themes and music of the album so far, this makes sense. The torture continues and meaty bass notes add seasoning.

"Hypnagogic Allure" is really the first song that allows the listener to soak in some of the evil atmosphere before getting hit over the head. The clean guitar tones are dark and tense, and around the corner comes the maelstrom. The instrumental passages are complicated, but also very easy to take in. "Prismatic Delirium" is another seemingly chaotic song but if you listen closer you can hear the patterns. They are ever-shifting, and Progressive in that sense, and they showcase a higher level of understanding of the principles of music in my opinion. "Knell of Nethermost Withdrawal" is the final song, and it's also the longest. The opening passages are very tense, and augmented with piano. The madness and chaos isn't too far behind however, and they end the album on an aggressive and torturous note…there will be no survivors.

This is the type of Black and Death Metal album that has the listener constantly reaching out to try to grab a hold of it, and that's what keeps you engaged. It's like witnessing an impending pile-up crash at high speeds on an interstate, but all cars actually make it through without a scratch. The band maintains a strict sense of control no matter how much chaos they throw at you. It's dark, aggressive, contentious, and Progressive in nature, and they are fantastic musicians.