Hello, my fellow black metal enthusiasts, Sean here at the Black Metal Archives and guitarist for the band Lastat. Today, we’re diving into the abyss with a review of the split album Descent Into Unpure Souls by Kruzifix and Crawling. This record is a hellish blend of raw black metal and blackened death metal, so let’s break it down!

Let’s start with Kruzifix, a one-man project from Portugal led by J. Their contribution to the album is pure, unfiltered black metal. The guitar riffs here are relentless—like a swarm of angry wasps—and capture the raw essence of early black metal. The lo-fi production adds an authentic grimness, but I’ll admit, it’s not for everyone. If you’re the type who likes to hear every note clearly, you might feel like you’re trying to decipher an ancient, cursed manuscript. The vocals are harsh and abrasive, delivering that perfect dose of chaotic despair, but they stick closely to the traditional black metal style, so don’t expect a lot of surprises.

Now, flipping the record, we have Crawling from Turkey, helmed by Helin. Crawling’s tracks offer a stark contrast to Kruzifix, leaning into blackened death metal territory. The guitars are heavy and thunderous, creating a dense atmosphere that feels oppressive yet strangely captivating. The riffs are more structured and layered, giving you a sense of progression as you’re dragged deeper into the sonic abyss. Helin’s vocals add a death metal edge—deep and guttural, like a demon reciting ancient incantations. It’s a dynamic shift that keeps the album fresh and engaging.

So how does Descent Into Unpure Souls hold up within the black metal genre? Kruzifix’s raw, primal style feels like a throwback to early Darkthrone, with an unapologetically unrefined sound that black metal purists will love. Crawling, on the other hand, brings a Behemoth-esque blend of black and death metal, offering a more polished yet still ferocious vibe. Together, these bands create a split album that’s like a black metal tasting menu—one part raw and bloody, the other dark and heavy.

Listening to this album is like attending a dinner party hosted by demons. Kruzifix serves the raw, unseasoned meat—an acquired taste for sure—while Crawling brings a hearty stew, still dark and intense but easier to digest. Either way, you’re leaving with a stomach full of black metal goodness.

If you’re a fan of atmospheric, raw, and aggressive sounds, this split album is worth checking out. Let me know your thoughts in the comments—do you prefer the raw chaos of Kruzifix or the crushing heaviness of Crawling?

Until next time, keep the black flame burning!