CoC : Enthroned - The Apocalypse Manifesto : Review

Enthroned - _The Apocalypse Manifesto_
(Blackened, 1999)
by: Paul Schwarz (7 out of 10)

Enthroned's style of black metal on this release is heavily influenced by the styles of such frenetic and violent performers as Mayhem and Immortal, although Enthroned are not even close to the strata which these bands occupy. Previously, Enthroned were somewhat of a joke to many in the black metal scene, but now I could justifiably see them being taken seriously, going on the strength of _The Apocalypse Manifesto_. Having been produced by Peter Tagtgren, the band do have a clear and powerful sound, though I must say Tagtgren's productions are starting to sound a mite formulaic when so many albums have them. Enthroned blast successfully and clearly enough through fast sections and manage in some cases to use acoustic or melodic interplay, particularly in less speed-obsessed sections, to give _TAM_ a bit more depth and create some atmosphere. "Post Mortem Penetrations" is pretty successful in this respect, though it is no "Freezing Moon". Overall, a more than adequate third release for the band, but certainly nothing to worry Emperor, Dawn, Immortal et al; they are not threatened by Enthroned.

(article published 7/7/1999)

ALBUMS
3/10/2007	Q Kalis	5.5	Enthroned - Tetra Karcist
13/12/2004	J Smit	6	Enthroned - Xes Haereticum
19/11/1998	B Meloon	9	Enthroned - Gothic Disturbance '98
7/6/1998	A Wasylyk	3	Enthroned - Regie Sathanas
18/4/1996	S Hoeltzel	8	Enthroned - Prophecies of Pagan Fire
17/1/1996	G Filicetti	8	Enthroned - Thy Flesh Consumed

DEMOS
7/6/1997	B Meloon	4	Enthroned - Gothic Disturbance
12/8/1995	G Filicetti		Enthroned - Absence of Life

GIGS
15/1/2000	P Azevedo	Marduk / Angelcorpse / Enthroned	Night of the Living Corpses