Faustian |Parable Of The Sewer |Apocalyptic Witchcraft

Faustian brings together musicians already known through Abramelin, Werewolves, The Berzerker, Psycroptic, The Amenta, The Antichrist Imperium and other respected names from Australia's extreme metal underground. What could have turned into another all star side project has grown into something with its own direction. Where Werewolves thrive on relentless death metal violence, Faustian explores black metal through dread, spiritual collapse and bleak storytelling. This is their second full length album following "We Come As Angels", and the chemistry between drummer David Haley, guitarist Matt Wilcock and vocalist Sam Bean has become far more focused than before.

"Parable Of The Sewer" wastes no time before throwing the listener into its bleak landscape. The production gives the guitars enough edge without burying the rhythm section, while the drums remain relentless. Sam Bean's vocal performance alternates between furious declarations and sinister phrasing that places equal importance on atmosphere and aggression. Songs such as "I Curse You", "I Want The Ride To Begin Again", and "We Do Not Use Names Here"  strengthen the album through memorable riff writing and convincing arrangements instead of relying on constant speed.

There are moments where the pacing becomes too similar across consecutive songs, making several sections blur together before the album regains its grip. Faustian has a knack for creating tracks that don’t just sound good, they are like a visceral experience, blending elements of black metal with an aura of dread that resonates throughout the album. The album culminates in “The Rot Shall Inherit The Earth”, a chilling ode to decay that lingers long after the final notes fade, cementing Faustian's place as a formidable force in the underground metal scene.

|7.5