Welcome back black metal fanatics. This is Sean from Black Metal Archives, and today, we’re diving into a unique and historically charged release—Sacred Son’s The Foul Deth of Engelond. This 2022 album is an ambitious black metal epic, immersing listeners in the violent and chaotic Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. With a blend of atmospheric grandeur, crushing riffs, and raw intensity, this record offers a gripping retelling of history through the lens of black metal. Let’s explore the sound, the themes, and what makes The Foul Deth of Engelond stand apart in the modern black metal landscape.
Sacred Son’s The Foul Deth of Engelond is a compelling black metal chronicle that delves into the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt in England. Released in 2022, this album intertwines historical narrative with atmospheric and doom-laden elements, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in English history.
The album opens with “Pestilence,” a brief instrumental that sets a foreboding tone with the tolling of bells and ambient sounds, immersing the listener into the medieval setting. This seamlessly transitions into the title track, “The Foul Deth of Engelond,” which captures the chaos and fervor of the uprising through a blend of aggressive riffs and evocative storytelling.
“Le Blakheth” stands out with its fusion of tremolo-picked riffs and subtle organ layers, creating a haunting atmosphere that reflects the turmoil of the era. The track balances intensity with melody, showcasing the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
In “The Boy King,” Sacred Son explores a doom-laden progression, reflecting the era’s turmoil and the young King Richard II’s perspective during the revolt. The track’s melancholic melodies and deliberate pacing offer a somber reflection on the historical events.
The album concludes with “Vengeance I & II,” a two-part epic that encapsulates the rebellion’s fervor and the subsequent fallout. The composition weaves between aggressive passages and atmospheric interludes, symbolizing the uprising’s intensity and the eventual suppression.
Sacred Son comprises Dane Cross on vocals, bass, and keyboards; Mark Norgate on guitars and vocals; Stuart Gardham on guitars; and Jamie Tatnell on drums. Their sound is further enriched by cello and piano contributions from guest musicians, adding depth to the black metal foundation. The production, handled by Chris Fullard and mixed by Randall Dunn, ensures a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
The Foul Deth of Engelond exemplifies black metal’s evolution, intertwining historical themes with atmospheric and doom elements. The album serves as a testament to Sacred Son’s innovative approach within the genre, offering a powerful piece of historical storytelling that emphasizes the significance of the Peasants’ Revolt for a contemporary audience.
For those interested in exploring this album further, The Foul Deth of Engelond is available on Sacred Son’s Bandcamp page. Let us know in the comments what you think after you give it a spin!
Until next time, hail the underground!
