I think it would be an understatement to say that right now, or whenever you’re reading this article, France is going through turbulent times. It’s a nation always in crisis, just like Argentina. Why am I talking about non-Metal matters? Well, because Seth’s new album La France des Maudits is thematically the most French album I’ve reviewed in the short history of this site. Also, it’s nice to talk about a French Black Metal band that won’t get me in trouble with half of the internet (you all know what I’m talking about). Great, so is this fresh work, or is it cursed? Stay with me!
I could highlight the “symphonic” elements or the songwriting consistency in La France des Maudits, but what really makes this album stand out to me is its combination of themes. You have lyrical work that is raw yet cryptic, just like a Baudelaire poem. You have the constant march of revolutionary-like melodies and disdain for the Christian church, which might sound cliché at first, but is taken from a different perspective that feels more inspired by Laïcité than by your typical Nordic paganism or patriotism. I love these reinterpretations of Black Metal! So, if you’re a francophone, you might enjoy this for more than the sick riffs.
This album has kind of a Dimmu Borgir vibe, but it’s much less digested by the machine, if you know what I mean. It still has that savage Black Metal from the basement feeling. “Et Que Vive le Diable” and “Ivre du Sang des Saints” are good examples of riffs that feel like getting a dagger in the ribs on a cold day. You might feel that the long tracks get a bit repetitive (and you probably have a point), but I think it helps with the atmosphere. Amazing, this review is reaching new levels of snobbery, but there must be something to dislike.
Yes, there are a few things that made me not eat my croissant. First, I’m not sure if I like the production here. I get that it’s trying to go for a more crusty feeling, but I believe it makes the synths and other “symphonic” elements sound a bit out of place. Second, the pace in general is fine, but you do get an interlude track, “Marianne,” and I feel it slows things down a bit too much. Finally, my promo version had a bonus track that is good on its own, but I think the album as a whole could’ve ended with its eighth track and felt complete.
This was still an interesting ride into darker and more revolutionary times (oh wait! That’s like a Tuesday in France!). If you ever want to destroy the unhealthy link between religion and state once and for all, La France des Maudits is a nice soundtrack for that. It might have a few hiccups, and I disagree with some aesthetic decisions, but as Black Metal that portrays a specific vibe and imagery, I think it has mostly delivered what it promised. Having said that, I’m watching the French election just for my sick love of the game!
Label: Season of Mist
Release date: 14 July, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/innomineseth
Country: France
Score: Paris in flames again, or maybe 3.5/5.0, if you long for the Ancient régime.
Metal Eclipse Reviews 