Katharos - Of Lineages Long Forgotten (2022)

Swedish symphonic black metal act Katharos return with a couple of tweaks to their line-up for Of Lineages Long Forgotten (Willowtip Records) their second full length album since forming back in 2006. Guitarist Max Müssbichler straps on the bass as well as taking care of his usual six string obligations for this record while drummer Tatu Kerttula makes his first studio appearance since joining the band in 2019.
Featuring backing vocals by fellow Swede Robin “Rob the slob” Westlund from death metal perverts Repuked, Of Lineages Long Forgotten is a well-produced and intelligently constructed record, seething with vicious intent but tempered by moments of restraint and subtlety. Possessing all the indiscriminate barbarity fans have come to expect but also displaying impressive technicality and a keen progressive eye, the future for Katharos looks beautifully black.