MAYHEM – Liturgy of Death

RELEASE YEAR: 2026
BAND URL: https://centurymedia.bandcamp.com/album/liturgy-of-death-24-bit-hd-audio

Legendary Norwegian black metal pioneers Mayhem surely need no introduction as these charismatic and chimeric entities have been at the vanguard of forward-thinking music for decades now. Renowned, infamous, musically exceptional, and nothing less than wholly captivating are words and phrases that seem relatively apt here with respect to their back catalog and the band itself, and whenever they unearth and unleash a new output, hopes are high that we shall once again be in the company of a pitch-black grandeur that leaves other acts in the ditch. Granted, not everything released under the Mayhem banner shines, sparkles, or pops for lack of a better word, but one cannot deny the greatness of some of their past achievements. As usual, I am rambling incoherently here, so let us get back on track and focus on today’s subject, which is the imminent release of their upcoming opus titled Liturgy of Death, shall we?

Liturgy of Death, which is comprised of eight deeply atmospheric compositions, evokes some of the best aspects and qualities of its two predecessors only that it is a more rewarding and stirring listening experience due to its perfect marriage of accessibility and hidden depths. Teloch’s unique way of arranging songs and churning out twisted, razor-sharp riffs permeate and elevate the record as does Attila’s demonic chants and unearthly howls, but the band as a whole is on fine form throughout and everyone is unarguably bringing their A game. What can I say about Hellhammer’s world-class drumming? Well, there is really no one quite like him, is there? The LP is not only cohesive but also rich in dynamics and superbly produced in terms of highlighting its infinite number of subtle details and interesting nuances, or in other words; striking a good balance between rawness, definition, and just the right amount of solid sonic punch. Despite its dissonant nature, countless unexpected turns, myriads of layers, and sinister surprises, it truly is one of the most easily digestible and memorable slices of blackened magic to sport the Mayhem moniker yet. Clever and complex without sacrificing an ounce of catchiness or appeal, if that makes sense.   

An echoing eeriness courses through Liturgy of Death and it is the most inspired and inspiring output that these wretched chaps have written and recorded in a while, which speaks volumes about its many qualities and forbidden delights. I cannot wait to see and hear how majestic, perfectly theatrical, and relentlessly dark pieces such as “Weep for Nothing” and “The Sentence of Absolution” will spellbind the audience in a live setting. If you get your hands on the deluxe edition box set of the release, there is a bonus song included titled “Sancta Mendacia” that is downright mesmerizing and unnerving, which is just the way we want our black metal served, right?