The German metallers The Night Eternal are back with their second full-length album “Fatale”, almost two years after their debut. While musically they follow the traditional heavy metal path, they do seem more mature and determined this time, like they finally know what they want to deliver.
It’s both strange and exciting how the classic metal influences from bands like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Saxon, and others are expertly mixed with elements from acts like Unto Others, Tribulation, The Devils Blood, and In Solitude.
The band’s dark heavy metal with the occult elements and the gothic touches is just so incredibly impressive. Ricardo Baum, the band’s singer, has a unique voice, which makes the final outcome even more interesting. His voice has a gothic undertone and is slightly theatric, which complements their music perfectly and makes it yet more absorbing.
The production is powerful and clean, and despite having a contemporary flavor, it doesn’t sound overpolished or anything like that. Marco Brinkmann (Vulture, Cryptic Brood, etc.) produced the album, and Arthur Rizk (Cavalera Conspiracy, Cirith Ungol, Enforced, etc.) did the mastering. The mysterious artwork was done by Nona Limmen (Foscor, Sinmara).
I honestly can’t pick any favorites because the entire album can be listened to without skipping any of the tracks. It flows so smoothly that even though it’s about 42 minutes long, you somehow get the impression that it’s a bit short. This album does demand your full attention, as it will lead you down gloomy and introspective pathways. The Night Eternal seems to have a promising future ahead of them. “Fatale” is apparently an enthralling journey into the depths of gothic-occult heavy metal that will captivate your thoughts. Embrace the darkness; let “Fatale” lead the way…
