What would you think if you saw a band and you knew it was a project of some well-known musicians? I would definitely say it would kick some major ass! However, we all know that many all-star projects have disappointed us in the past. As you realize, SULPHUR is a project that features musicians that have produced great things with their bands (or their ex bands). Let's see if SULPHUR can kick some ass or is just one more disappointing project.
Formed in 2000, SULPHUR is a project that features great musicians like Madsen (ex-ENSLAVED) and Erik (ex-AETERNUS, GORGOROTH). They have only released two demos, one in 2000 and one in 2005, and now they signed a contract with Osmose Productions to release their debut album Cursed Madness.
Even though their experience and their history as musicians look very promising for what the listener is going to face, nothing can ensure the success of this band, except from the album itself. The listener usually judges the music and not the history or ideology of a band. Cursed Madness is a Black/Death Metal album that unfortunately didn't manage to impress me at all. There are times I wonder why do all those talented guys produce such uninspired works. The production reminded me of Death Metal demos and the sound in general is not what I expected for sure!
The guitars are lacking the heaviness they should have, the drums are too empty and the bass is buried. The riffing is far from being characterized unique or fresh and the ideas can cause nothing more but boredom. It seems that the band's members tried to take some elements from their previous bands and create something good, but I think they make it. The Black Metal melodies are everywhere in this album but they definitely are not the best I have ever came across. The structure of Cursed Madness is totally mediocre and I already got bored of writing things about an album that - as it seems - it's only target is some extra money.
If you want an uninspired Black/Death Metal album that in my opinion spoils the great name Osmose has, go buy it. If you need something good, fresh and extreme, don't waste your money on SULPHUR. I will just be waiting for the new MARDUK album.