Even though Doom Metal is becoming very popular in the underground scene, the number of Doom Metal bands that are coming out is very steady. which is why I'm still a fan of the sub-genre. Unlike most musical genres that become very poplular, a shit load of bands come out of the woodwork, trying to catch in on the trend. It also helps that a lot of Doom Metal bands mix some Death, Black, and other experimental music. Which can sometimes keep things interesting.
When I read online that Akem Manah is coming out with a new alubm, I know that I'm gonna hear a awesome Doom record. On the last one, "Night of the Black Moon", main man, Dead Nedry added some layers to the Akem Manah sound. On album #3, to me, the Akem Manah sound has been defined. As soon as I hear the first chord, I know it's Akem Manah. Also Nedry was able to get Chris Lollis (ex-Nile/Lecherous Nocturne) on bass and Ivan de Prume (ex-White Zombie) on the skins. As much as I hear Lollis bass, I do have to say that de Prume did a great job on the drums. Head guitarist, Scott von Heildt, makes a appearance on two tracks and keeps things interesting. Also Ramesses' Adam Richardson does vocals on "Demon Rise", which was also fantastic.
I love the piano intro on "Dark Ritual". "Reign of Terror" is probably the best song that Akem Manah has recorded. Scott von Heildt's lead also makes that track awesome. I wouldn't be surprise if the title "Possession Of Nun" was inspired Haxan. And "The Twisted Rites of Satan's Bride" is also one of my favorite tracks.
If you're a fan of "The Devil is in All of You" and "Night of the Black Moon", Then you're really going to enjoy "Demons of the Sabbat". It's a huge step forward but still the Akem Manah that we know and love. Very heavy. Very dark. Very Akem Manah. This album gets "Five Hitlers Punched in the Face".
