Moonstruck-Kingdom of the Dark Majesty

While the musical quality of a project should stand on its own, independent of affiliations, the combination of the band’s origins, its members, and the label advocates a promising endeavour, a clear indication that this demo is worth exploring. Signal Rex's reputation in the black metal community amplifies the anticipation surrounding this release, ensuring it doesn't go unnoticed in the crowded underground scene.

As is often the case with Finnish black metal, Moonstruck delivers a highly harmonious yet fiercely aggressive sound. The high-pitched vocals and fast-paced tempo create an intense, misanthropic atmosphere. Although reminiscent of Kratti’s harmonious style, Moonstruck's sound is notably harsher and devoid of synthesisers, setting it apart. This divergence from that element deliberately moves Moonstruck towards a rawer, more unfiltered sound. The drumming, resembling Krusifoitu’s blackened death metal fierceness, adds a layer of aggression, contributing to a unique, albeit familiar, auditory experience, as the relentless percussion drives the ferocity of the music, anchoring the chaotic yet controlled cacophony.

"Kingdom Of The Dark Majesty" offers a glimpse into the band’s potential, showcasing their ability to merge melody with brutality with each track is meticulously crafted, with an emphasis on maintaining the raw essence of black metal while incorporating nuanced melodic elements. This balance between harshness and harmony shows their musical prowess and understanding of the black metals roots.

If you are a fan of primordial black metal with saccharine melodies, this demo is a great choice, along with its satellite projects. Moonstruck stands as a promising new entity in the black metal landscape. The raw, unpolished sound, combined with the melodic undertones, offers a refreshing take on traditional black metal, ensuring that “Kingdom Of The Dark Majesty” will resonate with purists as well as newcomers.