Artes Moriendi by De Profvndis Clamavi: A Sonic Descent Into Darkness
Alright, buckle up, because this is gonna get heavy. Artes Moriendi by De Profvndis Clamavi isn’t your typical rock album—it’s Black Metal through and through, oozing with raw energy, haunting vibes, and enough grit to make your headphones feel like they need a shower afterward. Released in 2003 outta Italy (self-released, no less), this record doesn’t mess around. It’s dark, it’s intense, and honestly? It’s kinda unforgettable.
Let’s dive into two tracks that stuck with me like gum on a hot sidewalk. First up, we’ve got “Bleeding Nightsky.” Oh man, where do I even start? This track feels like staring at the night sky while someone whispers creepy stuff in your ear. The riffs are razor-sharp, slicing through the mix like a knife gone rogue. And those vocals? Pure chaos—like a banshee having a bad day but still sounding oddly beautiful. You can almost picture yourself standing under that bleeding nightsky, questioning all your life choices. Yeah, it’s dramatic as hell, but damn if it doesn’t work.
Then there’s “River Of Blood,” which might just be my favorite cut from the album. If ever there was a song that could soundtrack a medieval battle scene or maybe a particularly gnarly nightmare, this would be it. The drums pound away like war drums, relentless and unyielding, while the guitars spiral into these hypnotic riffs that pull you deeper and deeper into the abyss. By the time it ends, you’re left breathless, wondering what the heck just happened. Did I survive? Am I okay? Honestly, who knows.
The rest of the album ain’t slouching either. Tracks like “They’re Calling” and “Running Down An Abyss I Realized To Have No Wings” keep the momentum going strong, blending ferocious instrumentation with eerie atmospheres that’ll give you goosebumps—or send you running for the light switch. Even “Sephulcre” closes things out with a bang, leaving you feeling like you just crawled out of some shadowy underworld.
Here’s the thing about Artes Moriendi: it’s not perfect. Sometimes the production feels a little too lo-fi, like they recorded half of it in a crypt using leftover gear. But honestly? That adds to its charm. This isn’t polished stadium rock; it’s Black Metal straight from the gutters of despair, and it wears its imperfections like a badge of honor.
So, would I recommend this album? Absolutely—if you’re into music that makes you question your sanity and/or mortality. Just don’t say I didn’t warn ya when you find yourself humming along to songs about blood-soaked rivers and wingless descents into oblivion.
Oh, and one last thought: listening to this album feels like being dared to jump off a cliff. Thrilling? Yes. Terrifying? Also yes. Worth it? Probably… unless you hate fun.
