Anatolian Wisdom - _Where the Iblis Dwells_
(ASA Productions, 2008)
by: Quentin Kalis (7 out of 10)
Canadians Anatolian Wisdom are enshrouded within typical black metal secrecy and occultism, and it is not known whether they are another bunch of New Worlders obsessed with ancient cultures across the pond as with Nile, or whether they are of Turkish origin. I suspect it may be the latter, if only because of the large number of Turkish bands listed in the "thanks" section.

Regardless of origins, they have created a Middle East inspired black metal that adds a new twist to the usual cacophonous screams and guitars. Overt Middle East or Arabic influences are kept to a minimum; Anatolian Wisdom performs black metal, not flag waving, flute diddling ultranationalist hymns, and exotic touches are limited to an to an occasional Arabic melody and lyrical fragments. The vocalist tends to be a bit too screechy, and is too high in the mix, as are the drums. The album's highlight is "Ritual for a Blackened Dawn", which has a beautiful martial interlude sandwiched between inexorable blastbeats. Also worthy of special mention is "Darkest of Days", which is indebted to Venom and NWOBHM rather than the Norsemen.

Anatolian Wisdom do possess some ingenuity, but would benefit greatly from a more professional production. Not only would it allow the guitar to take its rightful place in the foreground, but it would "clean up" the songs, making them sound more focused and fiery.

Contact: http://www.anatolianwisdom.com

(article published 31/10/2008)


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