Absu – ‘Tara’ CD

Absu’s ‘Tara’ is a highly regarded release within the black metal genre, praised for its technicality and unique blend of elements from different sub-genres of extreme metal. The album was released in 2001 and marked a departure from the band’s earlier, more straightforward black metal sound, incorporating elements of thrash, death, and even progressive metal into their music.

The musicianship on ‘Tara’ is exceptional, with intricate guitar riffs, complex drumming, and a wide range of vocal styles, including high-pitched shrieks and guttural growls. The album’s lyrics draw heavily from mythology and occultism, with references to Celtic and Sumerian legends and the writings of Aleister Crowley.

Despite its complexity, ‘Tara’ maintains a cohesive sound and atmosphere throughout its nine tracks, with each song building upon the last to create a dynamic listening experience. Standout tracks include the epic opener ‘A Shield with an Iron Face,’ the thrash-infused ‘Manannán,’ and the haunting instrumental ‘The Cognate House of Courtly Witches Lies West of County Meath.’

Overall, Absu’s ‘Tara’ is a masterful example of technical black metal, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and their unique blend of influences. It remains a highly influential album within the genre and a must-listen for fans of extreme metal.