When most metal heads think of Black Metal they would be forgiven for initially jumping to the well established household names of WATAIN, BEHEMOTH or TAAKE. But I would like to draw your attention, if you haven't done so already yourselves, to THE SPIRIT. A young group out of Germany who had a resounding success with their debut self-release "Sounds From The Vortex". In fact, Nuclear Blast picked it up after the print had run.

At the start of this month THE SPIRIT have offered up their sophomore release. "Cosmic Terror", now the band understands that there is a far reaching multi-faceted meaning surrounding this title, however, it is their desire to allow their music to speak for its self, without it being over analysed as to what they meant.

The artwork, born of the French artist Valnoir is fairly bust to look at, however it is also very easy on the eyes. With some intricate detailing and a focal point of a ringed planet that is made to appear to be an eye sitting in the depths of space. This plays into their cosmic title.

There is no time to prepare yourself. As instantly within "Serpent As Time Reveals" the music propels us into a relentless, aggressive set of rhythms and riffs. We are given the odd respite to catch our breath though, which is welcome but not required. The polished and refined standard of the music is a demonstration of the groups talent as musicians, especially drummer M.S, who is really going to be getting a sweat on driving the track forwards! The flow of the music seems to be absolutely effortless and that just adds to the professional feel to the standard produced. The final head nod, I would like to give in this track is to a neat little guitar solo towards the end, the use of a clean and almost Classic Rock sounding guitar adds such a difference that it is so striking and memorable.

 "Repugnant Human Scum" begins in a slightly more relaxed manner. However, the use of a guitar run creates a cosmic atmosphere. The music and flow of this is slightly less aggressive than that previously experienced on the album, with some good clean breaks and changes of tempo we are to bear witness to the skill of all band members. The title, "Repugnant Human Scum" is screamed, it is angry and it is raw emotion in its own right. I can see that being a crowd favourite for participation.

Next, we come to "Pillars Of Doom". Again, it is a great demonstration of musical ability and knowledge as both the writing and performance are excellent. With energy and electricity flowing through, memorable riffs, aggressive vocals and just an overarching badass feel to the entire track, I have to say that this is my pick of the album.

"Cosmic Terror" does not disappoint as the album comes to a close. With another demonstration of M.S's skills behind his set. The way that the entirety of the song, and album, have been put together are just excellent.

Overall, the professionalism and raw musical ability combined within the album have made it absolutely amazing. With the band creating such a solid platform to move on from, I would have to say that THE SPIRIT are an up and coming band to watch. They are making great strides forwards and have built a reputation for themselves to be proud of. With the strength of pedigree in European Black Metal, I am sure that we will see this young group develop into a household name over time. I look forward to catching them in the U.K.