Belphegor: Bondage Goat Zombie

Label: Nuclear Blast, 2008

Nationality: Austrian

What we have here is something of a concept album from Austria's most demented of sons. The concept here is none other than the infamous father of S & M and faecal play Marquis de Sade! Despite the somewhat ludicrous album title and artwork, which might suggest pastiche rather than creative genius, this is an excellent black metal assault on the senses in the vein of Marduk's mid-period albums and EPs, (ie when they still made great music). The fact that they decided to make a concept album illustrates the confidence of the band and this confidence flows through the performance. Although a tad vulgar and obvious for my taste there is no denying that Belphegor are at the height of their powers although the parameters within which they tread will always limit their development. I'm sure they don't care one bit! One to switch off and go insane to.