Majestic Mass - Onwards (CD)

This is essentially two tracks of stale heavy metal with a black metal aesthetic. The first track ‘Thy Ravenous Storms’ is a circular wander without purpose. Crafted from one central refrain with no attempt at a development section, yet too generic to warrant excessive repetition. Set to a flat, galloping drumbeat and minimal organ accompaniment; the latter being an apparent attempt to paint the tentative heavy metal swagger with a retro occult vibe. Not so much “Ravenous Storms” as a mildly irritating breeze. The second track ‘Reaping Fires’ may be more generous with riffs and ideas, but no less lacking in originality. Some bargain basement King Diamond crooning accompanies the black metal vocals which does nothing to lift the spirits.