Macedonian post-black metal project Psevdanor’s latest release Artimpasa is hauntingly desolate, rife with cynicism and lyrics that rival Lovecraft. With an emphasis on humanism through the lens of chaos mysticism, the work is thought-provoking as well as expertly matched by its instrumentals.

Originally formed in 2022 this is the first full-length release following single Fluctuation. All of the releases are DIY from recording to production, which oozes a sense of pride in one’s work. From first exposure to last listen there is something about Artimpasa that buries itself into the recesses of one’s mind. This album has something to say, a grander message, and that alone is enough to win me over but, it is the artistry that encapsulates that message which is the primary selling factor. Genuine is rare and this delivers on that front.

We open with something more traditional in the vein of other releases we have seen this year, an instrumental track that is the tone setter for the entirety of Artimpasa. Xaoc slowly unfolds itself with a building pressure and wordless chanting. It is eerie while maintaining a sense of occultism that is influential to the project.

As the intro track comes to an end it blends seamlessly with Vsemiroskonchanie a ferocious mix between raw brutality and poetic lyricism. The energy maintained is cosmic, carried by strings riffs that are equal measure discordant and seductive. The vocals from Psevdanor alternate between soulful bellow to banshee wail which gives the listener a chance to appreciate what is written. I am truly enamored by the way the entirety of the album is constructed; it’s beautifully elegiac.

Track Haimatomanteia airs more on the thrashy side of things without losing the edge of black metal. There’s layers to this one including a few breaks in the guitars that remind me of early Deafheaven. Never enough to quite cross into the territory of post but, a welcome addition to add texture to the track.

Fluctuation was the single originally released from this album and it’s evident why. This is the purest taste of Psevdanor’s signature sound dripping with the delicious elements of cosmic ineptitude against the backdrop of chaos. The vocals are ritualistic, drums driving, and harmonies bestial. This is my recommendation if one were to listen to anything off of this album this is the jumping-off point. Radiant in its rawness.

Artimpasa, the title track, starts leaving no holds barred. This song in particular I enjoy the mix which gives the drum a bit more bounce instead of relying solely on the more unyielding approach of other compatriots. The integration of clean vocals with the harsh is well done without either detracting from the other.

The last track Ex Copore Mundi Veteris veers again to traditional roots, this in particular reminding me of some of Craft’s early work, it’s harsh and unapologetic. It’s a solid finisher but, embodies my one criticism of this album: it’s a bit repetitive. Competent songwriting is what saves this from falling into the boring category but, in the future, I hope to see a little more experimentation in the overall structure.

Psevdanor’s Artimpasa as a ground-up DIY venture is 100% worth your time and is a strong recommendation for debut albums coming out this year.

As a closing note I would like to add that proceeds from this album are benefiting victims of the Kočani fire that took the lives of 60 people and injured hundreds. In addition to that I will be linking a place you can donate to the families directly here and implore you to support in any way you can, even if it’s simply getting the word out.

Head on over to the Psevdanor Bandcamp page and check out Artimpasa for yourself.

Until then, take care of one another and hails or something.

RATING: 3.5 OUT OF 5

RATING SYSTEM:

• 0 – 1 Fucking shit.
• 1 – 2 Shit.
• 2 – 3 Not Bad Shit.
• 3 – 4 Pretty Good Shit.
• 4 – 5 Amazing Fucking Shit.
• 5 The Best Shit You Will Ever Hear.