Necrofier "Burning Shadows in the Southern Night" Album Review

Have you ever felt the blasphemously hot Texas winds on your face? Let me ask you differently: have you ever heard of a band called Necrofier? These Texas metallers have been creating memorable and superior melodic black metal since their first EP, Visions of Fire. Following their debut studio effort, Prophecies of Eternal Darkness, Necrofier carved their name among the eternal blasphemies. Their approach to the beloved genre has always felt refreshing to me, and their ambition has carried their success throughout their career, leading them to always step forward with each of their creative works. This brings us to today's subject.

Burning Shadows in the Southern Night is Necrofier's sophomore effort, filled with what we love them for the most: extremity and melodic madness. While Necrofier's individual performances shine in every work, Burning Shadows is their most complete and focused output. Considering all the band members are seasoned professionals, this is not surprising. We all know and love the backbone of the group, Dobber Beverly, for his previous works with Oceans of Slumber, Insect Warfare, Malignant Altar, and many more. As a fellow drummer, Dobber has always been a huge inspiration for me, and he never ceases to amaze with every work he puts his signature on. Also, Semir Özerkan's addition to the band line-up is the cherry on top. His rhythm section work with Oceans of Slumber since their 2020 self-titled output left me speechless every time, and now his lead efforts also show his true potential.

The opener, Total Southern Darkness, is like a statement for the band on this record. It works as a summary of what you'll hear and witness. With blasting fury from all band members, Bakka's demonic vocal deliveries set the tone pretty well and make you expect total darkness indeed. The album carries on with the headbanger To the Wolves and a clear highlight, Forbidden Light of the Black Moon. Throughout the record, the band keeps your interest high with how they reflect their influences in their own way. While you can clearly hear the influences of classic black metal bands like Darkthrone, Emperor, and Dark Funeral, you can also hear some traditional heavy metal moments. Although some pieces like The All Seeing Shadows and Call to the Beyond feel a bit uninspired compared to the rest of the record, the strength of Burning Shadows is undeniable.

I love how Necrofier brings their A-game so early in their career. As I mentioned, their success comes from all the members' experience with their past achievements. With a strong record like this and a showcase of potential, it's clear that their future works will continue to improve. Minor production issues and some unbalanced moments are not enough to hold back this successful album. I can't wait to see what they're up to next.

Highlights:

• Total Southern Darkness

• To the Wolves

• Forbidden Light of the Black Moon

• Burnt by the Sacred Flame

Rating: 8.0 / 10

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