Album review: Skjult - Lucifer Hominum Salvator (2020)

Skjult - Lucifer Hominum Salvator

Cuba

Satanath Records

Cuba is not a country I know much about in regards to its metal history, although I have managed to hear a number of killer bands from there, such as Narbeleth (now situated in Spain), From the Graves, Infector, Sectarium, Combat Noise, and now, Skjult from Havana. (Most of the good ones hail from the country's capital, Havana) “Lucifer Hominum Salvator” is the band's third album, and was released by Satanath Records.

Skjult play a rather pristine and straightforward black metal that puts a lot of emphasis on atmosphere. It's not groundbreaking by any means, but it's a formula that works. The fact that this is a one-man project is quite impressive; the music is very well-crafted and manages to easily draw the listener in. Conspirator, the sole individual behind the music, demonstrates a knack for excellent craftsmanship. The songs are quite lengthy, yet coherent, as each instrument is skillfully arranged and integrated into the mix.

There are definitely some similarities to the Scandinavian school of black metal, with the aggressive vocals laid atop a mountain of freezing cold riffs, including a barrage of straightforward drums and blasts. The drums aren’t overly technical, but they’re on point and clearly well-played considering that Conspirator handled all the instruments. The guitars definitely take center stage here, as each song is peppered with somber, immaculate riffs that evoke an atmosphere of pure anti-cosmic darkness.

The style employed on this album is very much a tried and tested formula that bears similarities to bands such as Watain, Dissection and Urgehal. The lack of originality is not necessarily a problem considering how well composed the material is, including the fact that the album boasts an excellent production that allows the instruments to shine. The band also seems to be quite prolific, as “Lucifer Hominum Salvator” is Skjult's third full-length in just four years.

All in all, Skjult's third album is an excellent effort and should not be overlooked by fans of the genre, especially if you’re curious to hear some truly dark and morbid black metal from a country like Cuba, which isn’t exactly known for its metal scene. Recommended. (Jim)