US Black Metal School had a different history in terms of evolution. Obviously it had influences from names as BATHORY, VENOM and HELLHAMMER, but it gathered influences from Thrash Metal and Death Metal as well, as works from ancients as ABSU and BLOODSTORM showed. But as time passed, things improved into a purest Black Metal form, and names as CEREMONIAL CASTINGS, ABIGAIL WILLIAMS and others showed the DNA of what US Black Metal was up to. And from there come the tyrants of XAEMORA, and their latest release, the EP "At Dusk of Existence", is really amazing.

They can be classified as a traditional Melodic Black Metal band, with extreme parts but using melancholic ambiances created by keyboards parts. But their melodic work is based upon a very good technical insight, what is a particular feature from USA Metal bands in any musical genre that could be named. But the personal way the band is into is amazing, with very good contrasts and an amazing and catchy energy. Yes, it's excellent! The production worked in a way that everything could be heard clearly, but always keeping that crude touch that is precious for Black Metal. All the band's musical arrangements can be heard, and the choice for the tunes was done wisely.

"Descent to Oblivion" bears very good rhythmic changes, with nasty and somber guitar riffs and keyboards ambiances.  On "Manifestos", again can be heard a great work from the guitars (including a solo), along with contrasts created by melodies and aggressiveness, and what nasty (and good) shrieks. Brutal and fast (but again with tempos' contrasts) comes the nasty grasp of "From a Western Sky", seducing the listeners by its crude melodies (and what a solid and very good work on bass guitar and drums). Being a bit more brutal and aggressive (and creating an oppressive ambiance) comes "Cosmic Void", filled with charming keyboards. And "At Dusk of Existence" shows a lovely set of harsh melodies and technical brutality in the same vein of 90's Black Metal. It's an EP, so all songs can be heard in one shot (because it's hard to say that one song is better than the others as well).

It can be said that "At the Dusk of Existence" has such seductive appeal that is an explicit invitation to know more of XAEMORA's work.