Project: Ultimate Satan—now that’s a name I want to shout out loud in front of all my Metal friends (if I had any). They’d be so puzzled, thinking I was talking about some reality show. But enough jokes. Opus Satanas actually brings something interesting to the table. I’d define it as Symphonic Metal that devolves into Death Metal. It’s been a while since we’ve had a proposal like this, and honestly, I needed a break from all the “bark bark bark, dum dum dum” on repeat. So, let’s get to it!
Opus is… strange. I was expecting a Septicflesh wannabe, but what I got felt more thematically aligned with old-school Dimmu Borgir. Yet, it’s not Black Metal. Perhaps a better comparison would be Fleshgod Apocalypse, but without the over-the-top bombast and technical insanity. There’s still a deep appreciation for drama and sheer intensity here. I also appreciate that, despite being heavy on the synths, the album doesn’t sound like an industrial nightmare. Honestly, that would’ve been the easy way to build atmosphere, but this project went for something more Blackened. (I promise to drop the hipster act with all these labels soon!).
The riffs are plentiful and familiar enough to make many of us feel comfortable, despite the subtle changes here and there. But I believe the album’s strongest element is its vocal performance. You get the classic “beauty and the beast” dynamic, but rarely is it done this heavy and aggressive. That sets the band apart. Of course, I still have my usual two big critiques that will probably make you roll your eyes and rage-bait me on social media. But hey, someone has to burst your bubble—and if it’s not your therapist, it’ll be me! So, let’s talk about the setbacks.
First, I find this album fresher than expected, and that won’t change. My main issue is the drums. They’re executed well, but I just can’t get into their sound. It’s muddy and too industrial for the rest of the music. I can tell it’s intentional, but it made it hard to hear everything else. Maybe I need more time, but those drums hit me like a freezing water balloon. And on a minor note, isn’t the opening riff basically a variation of “Demigod”? That’s a tall order. I love that riff—I’ve studied it like a total nerd. There was no way I wouldn’t notice. But I can’t blame the band; it’s an awesome riff, after all!
This hasn’t been the most symphonic year (unless you count all the glittery stuff Elyna reviews—yuck!). So, if you’re looking for something that sounds a bit more serious and can enjoy this particular production style, give Opus Satanas a spin or two. It’s different, but not too far from the comfort zone. As for MER, we’ll keep our eyes on this project. I’m sure more interesting things are yet to come!
Label: Eschatonic Records
Release date: 29 November, 2024
Website: https://www.facebook.com/projectultimatesatan/
Country: Australia
Score: a devilish 3.0/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 