Artist: Crucifixion Ritual
Country: USA
Label: Invictus Productions
Formats: Cassette EP
Year: 2025
Although the band’s line-up is somewhat shrouded in mists, it seems to at least be comprised of musicians who have had past and present activities in bands such as Black Funeral, Obsidian Grave, Cult Of Thaumiel, Misanthropic Extermination, Gharmelicht and Ancient Necromancy. But unlike most of those bands that belong mainly in Raw Black Metal circles, they show a very different musical side with Crucifixion Ritual. The band name, this EP’s title, the artwork and colour scheme… It is not exactly rocket science, you do the math.
In just under 15 minutes we are presented with four tracks that are easily filed under the wildest and most savage sort of Black/Death Metal in the true Bestial/War tradition. It is quite obvious that these musicians needed an outlet for all inner anger and hatred, something that isn’t fitting in the band member’s other musical endeavours. Here you’ll find no melodies, intricate riffs or well-composed songs.
Instead, ‘Desecration Of The Archangels’, the band’s second EP after 2021’s ‘Gouging the Eyes of Angelic Purity’, pretty much piles up all the standard elements of the Bestial Black/Death Metal genre. Quite unoriginal, but the question is how much of a bad thing that is in a genre not at all known for its innovativeness. Because, although you’ve heard this dozens of times before, it’s well executed. And, honestly, what else then barbaric pummelling, chaotic riffs and barking vocals would you expect to come along such song titles: ‘Michael – Castration’, ‘Raphael – Gouging’, ‘Gabriel – Elinguation’ and ‘Uriel – Lobotomy’?
You could say it sounds like a mix between Blasphemy and Proclamation, but you could basically insert any other band to make the comparison fit. But again, it is not about offering something delightful or pleasing the masses: this is bludgeoning violence in its most savage form. Take it or leave it.
