German newcomers Arthedain unleash a classic blackened blitzkrieg with their 4 song EP "Arias Exalted" that harkens back to early to mid-90s black metal with blast beats, cacophonous guitar riffs and dark and foreboding atmosphere. The vocals are a bit more on the death side but there are some black metal shrieks mixed in, making an ominous feel. The three full length songs are some of the most ferocious and passionate BM that I have heard as of late showing roots like a festering wound. The instrumental, albeit short, is a haunting interlude. Clearly neither post BM or old school BM, "Arias Exalted" is just Black Metal. No more, no less.
