Metalcatto
In our not-so-long career, we have reviewed bands with all sorts of quirky names. Temple ov Ahriman isn’t that weird, but who the heck names an album Heretics of Consensual Reality? I’m old school. I read Durkheim. Reality is what opposes the individual will. This title makes no sense! Anyway, you’re here for the Metal, not for the snobbery. So let’s see if this is more than just average Black Metal.
This album is kind of interesting, indeed. Don’t let its first minutes fool you, because Heretics is more than just tremolo-picking and rusty vocals. It’s an album that hides a lot of details, if you’re willing to make the effort and pay attention. There are historical references, occult themes, and a blend of styles that come together with surprising ease. Black, Folk, and even Post-Metal influences make this album sound pretty unique. The transitions between these styles are not always smooth, but the roughness adds character rather than taking away from the experience.
I’d argue that the album has two substantially different parts. The first half has all that classic aggression you’d always expect from a release like this—fast, raw, and unforgiving. The second half is more interesting. It carries a sorrow and melancholy that reminds me of acts like Hell Is Other or Downfall of Gaia, but it’s all subtle. It never goes full Melodic Black or Post-Metal. That’s what keeps it compelling: the slow downfall into utter sadness. It feels more genuine than just pointless anger. The music becomes heavier in emotion rather than in speed.
My complaints aren’t too brutal today. Sure, I could have enjoyed an album with more of that Sodomisery energy all around. And the vocals at times do feel rather loud in the mix—absolutely decadent, but occasionally overpowering. Yet overall, the experience is worth the effort. I’m not sure how conceptually cohesive the album is with its lyrical themes, but honestly, most Metal doesn’t bother to have decent lyrics at all. So even an attempt at coherence is a step above the average.
I’m a bit surprised. What started as another parade of clichés slowly evolved into something engaging that you could return to a few times. I had no clue what Temple ov Ahriman was before this album, but perhaps I should start giving a flying fudge from now on. Sometimes self-made Black Metal has more to offer than just mediocre atmosphere to fill the void. And maybe we should reward that here. Heretics of Consensual Reality is proof that underground bands can still surprise you when you least expect it. That alone is worth a listen. So do yourself a favor: stick past the first few minutes. The reward is waiting
Label: Independent
Release date: 26th June, 2026
Website: facebook.com/templeovahriman
Country: USA
Score: 3.7/5.0
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