Behold The Lords Barbaricvm by Hrid: A Raw Journey Through Black Metal Fury
Released in 2012, Behold The Lords Barbaricvm is a black metal album that feels like it crawled straight out of the depths of Croatia’s untamed wilderness. Self-released under the moniker “Not On Label,” this record isn’t polished or overly produced—it’s raw, unfiltered, and dripping with primal energy. For fans of extreme music, this is less an album and more an auditory ritual led by Lord Scyth, who handles vocals, lyrics, and drums, alongside Aboen on guitar and bass.
The album kicks off with "Intro: Locus De Lapsu," setting the tone for what’s to come. It’s not just your typical intro track; it builds tension with eerie ambiance before exploding into chaos. You can almost picture some shadowy figure standing atop a desolate hill as winds howl around them. It sticks in your mind because it doesn’t rely on cheap tricks—just pure atmosphere. By the time the first proper song hits, you’re already hooked.
Another standout track is "Draco Ira." This one grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go. The riffs are relentless, churning forward like a war machine fueled by rage. Lord Scyth’s shrieks cut through the mix like daggers, while the drumming pounds away with militaristic precision. What makes "Draco Ira" unforgettable is its pacing—it never lets up, creating a sense of urgency that keeps you glued to the edge of your seat. If black metal could be distilled into a single track, this might just be it.
Lyrically, the album leans heavily into themes of prophecy, wrath, and ancient forces. Tracks like "Prophetia" weave cryptic tales that feel both timeless and otherworldly. While the production quality may not rival bigger labels, there’s something charming about its DIY grittiness. It adds authenticity to the experience, making it clear that Hrid prioritizes passion over perfection.
One thing worth noting is how cohesive the album feels despite its ferocity. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, crafting a narrative arc that pulls you deeper into their barbaric world. And hey, who needs flashy studio effects when you’ve got tracks like "Locus De Lapsu" bringing the goods? Its haunting melodies linger long after the final note fades.
In hindsight, Behold The Lords Barbaricvm isn’t perfect—but maybe it wasn’t meant to be. Its rough edges give it character, reminding us why we fell in love with underground metal in the first place. Listening to it feels like uncovering a hidden artifact—a relic from a forgotten age.
And honestly? That’s kinda beautiful.
