Vaeok is a symphonic black metal entity formed by the collaboration of VJS (Nightbringer, Sargeist, and Adaestuo) and MS (Kult of Azazel). ‘Vaeok’ is the band’s first E.P. released proudly through W.T.C. Productions. The duo unearth the roots of Norwegian symphonic black metal with an emphasis on fast tempos and symphonic atmosphere. This was associated to Emperor, Limbonic Art and Obtained Enslavement in the mid and late 90’s. All these bands seem to enlighten the performing duets who became profoundly influenced by the masterworks of Nordic black metal. This record is for those who are into ghostly synth and eerie symphonies. Its musical creation is full of wondrous moments forged by orchestral arrangements, symphonic elements, and massive guitar barrage.

VJS and MS joined forces to create a musical cauldron brimming with many compositions of symphonic majesty such as synth, piano, and eerie melodies. Other significant qualities on this debut are the force of the searing riffs and the symphonic sufficiency that are strikingly omnipresent. ‘Terricula Nox‘ initiates haunting soundscapes as it cascades effectively through a lush orchestra that builds a dark atmosphere. So perfectly, in fact, that it takes over the senses and provides a cold backdrop to the music. The grand and majestic display of the sharp riffs along the synth orientation is consistently dominant throughout the duration of 21 minutes. As soon as the spooky synth drifts by the menacing growls along with the scorching guitar riffs, the drums begin to resonate loudly.

Vaeok perfects the phantasm qualities while the marvelous and eerie soundscapes provide a mystic beauty to the music. The self-titled E.P. is reined by the unceasing tempo of the roaring maelstrom of demonic wrath. Like a reverberating blast, the drums maintain fast tempo and guitars resonate loudly, which makes the music so unsettling. This haunting opus is composed of four tracks of enthralling dark riffs and high pitched vocals, while the layering texture in every track evolves in an aura of ambiance and spine-chilling orchestra. Arranged by captivating and enthralling song compositions, this album is a fine demonstration of the second wave of the Norwegian black metal majesty.

The two maestros prove their skill as they illustrate the forgotten art of symphonic black metal. With surging tremolos and blast beats that forge an extra texture, the growls sound like the screams of a demon. These elements particularly define the style of Vaeok. ‘Atrox‘ begins ialong the same lines of eerie synth that becomes predominantly loud. Heavy echoes of whirling riffs and boisterous drums unleash an endless series of blast beats. The music has many different aspects all arranged by a complex use of synth. ‘Vaeok‘ offers a haunting experience akin to a horror movie soundtrack. The musical work is influenced by early Tartaros’ ‘The Grand Psychotic Castle‘.

The atmosphere of cosmic darkness is dominated by the heavy riffing, albeit veined into the semblances of symphonic black metal bands, giving us many outstanding moments. Until it completely becomes eclipsed by the nuances of Charmand Grimloch‘s work, this modulation, that reminds me of the ‘Red Jewel‘ album by Tartaros, reverberates here. I wasn’t sure until the third track ‘Malaesthete’ refreshed my memory, but I dare say this extraordinary iteration is based on the oeuvre of early Emperor and Tartaros.

And it is pleasantly welcomed by the duets who created such an overwhelming music. ‘Souls of Void‘ will engulf you in total darkness, veering in hypnotic soundscapes of horror. The track is formed by cascading synth and layered by thick orchestral symphonies, backed by swirling guitar riffs and black metal screeches, whilst the lead guitar provides a spectral melody.

The sudden emergence of Vargrav and Gardsghastr including Vaeok was to restore this forgotten style of black metal, that was mastered by acts like Obtained Enslavement, Dimmu Borgir, Emperor and Limbonic Art. 
VJS and MS have created a timeless classic. My only complaint is that it’s too short. Nevertheless, Vaeok emerges from the cold depth of darkness to present us with a spellbinding soundtrack!

Release Date: January 7th, 2020
Label: World Terror Committee
Track list:

1. Terricula Nox
2. Atrox
3. Malaesthete
4. Souls Void