Sunday, October 26, 2014

Shells of Edom / Ho Ophis "Shattered Human Masquerade" split CD


When things begin with a direct encounter with a Sun Demon named Sorath, you know it is too late to turn back. The invocation has begun, and through a string of circumstances I have been allowed, perhaps tricked, to enter the sinister world of Shells of Edom and Ho Ophis. It is obvious the intentions here are purely malicious, to represent the darkest aspects of humanity through praise and libations of blood. The indecipherable chant begins, and while the words are not recognizable the Chthonic tone certainly is. For ten minutes, a murky rhythm continues then dissipates, constantly devouring itself and regurgitating its filth to reveal to the world.

This is Ritual Dark Ambient refined through years of diligent study in what is obviously the Left-Hand Path. How these individuals define themselves; Satanists, Setians, Anti-Cosmic, is beyond my knowledge, but looking at the song titles and symbols it is possible to make an educated guess. This split between Shells of Edom and Ho Ophis is intended only for those who are seeking a portal into worlds you are best advised to avoid, yet a few shall wander like moths to the flame and certainly get burnt. A few sacrifices are necessary after all, but for those with any sense who want to avoid true danger such things are best avoided. For the rest of us, we submit to whatever perils lay behind the veil that Shells of Edom and Ho Ophis have found the invocation to open.
Music like this must be analyzed for its impact in the ceremonial realms. This may prevent others who have no interest in such things from enjoying this, but this music is not created for them. People will think what they will, regardless, yet it remains that to experience such an intent is to recognize what the concepts are and how the existence of this music is for ritualistic purposes.  In this, as an album it undoubtedly succeeds. The eeriness is impenetrable, thick as a fog on a windy night, with various chants echoing across the abyss as ghosts and various paranormal activities engage in trickery on unsuspecting fools.

The dominating aspects of Shells of Edom are the cavernous chants, which speak in ancient tongues better left unknown. The music itself seems to enter then fall away, like an old tape reel that is half rotting and barely capable of carrying a tune. In regards to how each song differs,  this is hardly at all, for each song carries the same vibrating chants and a similar kind of sound in the background. This is certainly not the most exciting piece of ambient music I have ever come across, but then again it is made for very somber moods. Certainly, a bit of patience is needed, which is why I insist this is intended for ceremony, where one would sit meditating or repeating a chant numerous times.
This attempt to shatter the human masquerade begins with a ritualistic invocation to unleash demons unto the world, and continues its assault on what we absurdly call existence as Ho Ophis inducts the Current 423. As the listener drowns in the void of unknowing a continuous tone allows a sharp noise to pulsate. I hope it is safe to say not a whole lot happens during the whole of this split, as the sounds used are often repeated for quite the duration. Satanata is possibly the highlight, as the vocals evoke the terror which is needed to have reverence for almighty Death and all creatures of the night. I think someone who is part of whatever path these folks are on will find this much more powerful than those who are merely interested in it as a piece of music.
If the listener allows, this certainly offers the potential to visit realms only the darkest corner of the mind can imagine. As with all magical tools though, this must be done with intent and knowledge. As a piece of music separate from its significance, many would find this monotonous and merely background music.The tempo throughout  is exactly the same, which would be monotonous to some and as it is supposed to be to others. Concerning it being a split it would certainly be difficult to tell these are two separate artists, as everything blends quite holistically from beginning to end, yet any sort of trajectory seems to be non-existent. While this is certainly not the most powerful nor darkest album I have ever heard, it is an interesting addition to the world of Ritual Ambient, and if you have the time and patience, and courage to visit such realms, this may prove to be a powerful piece of music to aid other aspects of the passage to death we call life.
Written by: Patrick Bertlein / Heathen Harvest

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