Under Satanae

SPV

Definitely not for the faint of heart Portugal’s leading dark musical persona Moonspell have delivered their latest chapter of evil incarnate via their new album Under Satanae. Comprised of ten wickedly enticing musical gems, Under Satanae features complete re-recordings of the bands legendary masterpiece Under The Moonspell as well as their 1993 demo Anno Satanae and a pre-Moonspell track titled “Serpent Angel”.

Moonspell have always maintained a dark, passionate and intensely malevolent vibe throughout their musical career but hearing these songs from a fresh perspective thanks to the production efforts of Tue Madsen (The Haunted, Dark Tranquility) really brings into focus the bands penchant for delivering the pure essence of what makes a Black/Gothic Metal album so heart wrenchingly deviant. I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to this release and find myself tapping into the shadowy ambience that is represented. My only real criticism is directed solely at the sometimes off key clean vocals of frontman Fernando Ribeiro.

Under Satanae is a completely viable and accurate reflection of the bands talents and is sure to surpass all expectations of longtime fans as well as provide a worthy introduction for those who have just recently discovered the music of Moonspell.

-Priest