To go along with the release of the full-length CD Sentinel, Greek musican Ayloss, who also goes under the moniker of Spectral Lore, has also collaborated on this 2 song Split CD with up and coming act Locust Leaves, who Ayloss apparently has ties with. Though there are only two songs here, as each one is epic length you do get nearly 30 minutes of music on the CD, which is always a good thing. "Duty" is Spectral Lore's contribution, a frightening blast of black metal fury featuring Ayloss' always impressive guitar work, relentless blast beats, and his agonizing screams, growls, and groans. Throw in a lovely little acoustic/folk middle section dripping with atmosphere, and you have a great representation of how much Ayloss brings to the genre these days. Fans of Wolves in the Throne Room would be well advised to check out Spectral Lore. As for Locust Leaves, their song here is called "Promise", and comes more from an early '80s classic metal/thrash/NWOBHM background with some technical death metal thrown in for good measure. This riffs and arrangements on this one are quite inventive, and look for some pulverising, acrobatic drum work and deathly growls weaving in and around the complex guitar and bass riffs. There's also an extended section of jazz/folk/prog passages that works quite well to temper the brutality for a bit. I'll certainly be on the lookout for more from this band.
Split CD features once track each from two impressive extreme metal acts, and is without a doubt worthy of your attention.
Track Listing
1.
Spectral Lore - Duty
15:24
2.
Locust Leaves - Promise
11:36
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