The Shadowthrone

Shadowthrone picks up right where Dark Medieval Times left off, as Norway's Satyricon completed the foundation of their extreme metal reputation with the release of this sophomore Moonfog effort. After the success of their debut, more resources were devoted to this 1994 follow-up, and the resulting sonic and conceptual improvements are quite noticeable. The tracks are dense and sprawling, the performances drip with black metal conviction, and the total package is a complex and fierce upgrade. The blinding opener, "Hvite Krists Død," sets into motion a flurry of 32nd-note guitar riffs and sturdy drum patterns that Satyricon maintains with complete authority. The dogged pursuit of cacophonous perfection is a hallmark of this group, and Shadowthrone demonstrates the band's conviction as well as, or better than, any other offering.