Ghastly
A Morbid Demo...

November 2004
Released: 2004, Indpendent
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: MetalGeorge

Ya know, it's sad to say, but it's very rare when a new Black Metal demo impresses me these days. It actually upsets me, because I'm a huge fan of the genre, but to be honest, I'm getting sick of all the new acts getting by raping those who came before without offering anything new to the table.



Enter Australia's Ghastly. Featuring members from Myrddraal and the fantastic Misery's Omen (ones Crypt Stalker and Hellpitt), Ghastly have unearthed a 4 song demo that manages to be both original and traditional at the same time.

Hearing songs like "Black Demon" or the title track, you can hear the timeless influence of bands like Mayhem, yet tempered with the fire of classic traditional metal as well. The end result is a melting pot of grim, old school BM style and aesthetics that really gets the head banging and the fists pumping.



The guitars weave in and out, delivering both necro Black Thrash and subtle harmonies (even solos!) that would make bands like Mercyful Fate, Bathory, and Venom proud. The best aspect of this demo is that it actually possesses ATMOSPHERE! Yes, something that I feel is so lacking in BM demos these days, Ghastly possesses in spades.



Dare I say, this just may be one of the best Black Metal demos I've heard in years. Figures that it hails from Australia, a country who's acts never seem to let me down. A MORBID DEMO has great songwriting, solid performances, and personality for days. I highly reccomend you check these guys out, as they're more than worth your time.



Contact

PO Box 71, Latham a.c.t. 2615 AUSTRALIA