Empalamento – Ordem Da Estaca [EP / Re-Release]

Artist: Empalamento
Country: Portugal
Label: Self-released / Haloran Records
Formats: Cassette EP / CD EP
Year: 2024 / 2025

Even though I consider myself rather well-versed in the underground Extreme Metal scene, I sometimes tend to miss out on rather great releases. One such example is the self-released cassette tape version by Empalamento’s ‘Ordem Da Estaca’, the first feat by a new Portuguese duo that holds dear all the ancient and basic aesthetics of Black Metal. The EP is now reissued by Halorem Records, but personally, this sort of music feels much more in place on a cassette tape or a vinyl record instead.

On a musical level Empalamento, ‘Impalement’ in English, clearly draws inspiration from the first Black Metal bands that emerged from the vibrant early 90’s that still had a distinct echo of the deeper regions of the Extreme Metal of the 80’s. Not in terms of having Sodom or Mercyful Fate and the likes to resonate in the compositions, but an undeniable presence of early Samael and Bathory is definitely there. Other than that, to me the music on ‘Ordem Da Estaca’ (‘Order Of The Stake’) feels like a well-done crossbreed between early Graveland and Countess with bits and pieces of the old Polish and French Black Metal scenes and the likes of old Godkiller or even Varathron.

With so many resemblances with older bands, it obviously never sounds original or groundbreaking. But it is clear that the duo consciously ventures into the sound of yesteryear and tries to bring back alive an ancient feeling that many contemporary bands seem to lack. On the other hand, this sort of bands seem to be on the rise. Whether it is the Belgian scene with such acts as Forbidden Temple and Phlegethon’s Majesty or Diabolical Fullmoon and Azelsglare, an increasing number of bands feel the urge to craft their Black Metal following the paths of the golden days of the genre. Those were the years in which atmosphere was key and bands tried to conjure up an evil ambiance with their music. You can easily place Empalamento in that same tradition, not only because of that vital atmosphere, but also because of their apparent sense for song writing and musical details. Just listen to the waning moments of ‘Ascenção Obscura’ and convince yourself.

This is the kind of band that makes my interest in the Black Metal genre never seem to wane, there is always something wonderful to discover. My fate is sealed. Just too bad I missed out on that cassette tape…