Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Swedish band Crimson Moonlight are back with 'Divine Darkness', their first album in nine years. Part of a relatively new sub-genre called Unblack Metal, the band has gained some notoriety within this obscure sub-genre. For me, the album sounds like black metal through and through minus the occult/pagan overtones. Apparently part of the ethos of this genre is a departure from the philosophy associated with Black Metal and more positive lyrics in the songs. While there is definitely less occult/pagan sentiments on the record, I don't quite see much difference from this album and say Ulver's 'Nattens Madrigal' in sound and style. That being said, 'Divine Darkness' is a pretty solid slab of metal goodness. The songs sound decent enough and the overall vibe of the album is pretty cool. "Kingdom of the Wolf", "Voistinu Voskrese" and "The Dogma of Chalcedon" are standout tracks. If you're looking for that extreme feel without the occult/pagan references, then Crimson Moonlight shall definitely appeal to you.