Exilium Noctis – “Pactum Diaboli”

Exilium Noctis return with their second full length album “Pactum Diaboli”, confirming that they are one of the most respected acts in the Greek extreme metal scene.
Three years after their amazing debut album “Fragments of Apocalypse”, the band sounds more mature, tighter and most importantly with a clear artistic identity.

“Pactum Diaboli” moves solidly between black and death metal forms, maintaining the harshness and brutality of death but with the ritualistic, dark environment of black.
The production is exemplary for the genre: clean, dynamic, without losing the necessary depth and sense of menace that such a release requires.

The album’s tracks are pervaded by a thematic consistency, with lyrics dealing with Satanism, the occult, existential anxiety and eternal darkness.
Influences from acts like Behemoth, Belphegor and Watain are present, but the band never loses their own personal expression.

“All Shall Burn” stands out, an aggressive and technically well-crafted track that shows the band’s compositional ability, and “Fall Of Babylon”, which stands out for its more technical, atmospheric approach and its almost apocalyptic mood.
Throughout the album, it’s evident that the band is interested in impressing with surface chaos, but also in building a cohesive and internally charged experience.

“Pactum Diaboli” is a clear step forward for Exilium Noctis.
It’s not just a heavy sound or a dark record, it’s an artistic ensemble that exudes professionalism, consistency and clear direction.
Those who follow the Greek scene would be well advised to pay attention to them.
Those who love the sound of blackened death/black metal, will find a lot to appreciate here.

Spyros Tribos
9/10

Tracklist:
1.Adventus Tenebrarum
2.All Shall Burn
3.Pactum Diaboli
4.Fall of Babylon
5.Deorum Cremator
6.God’s Demise
7.Priest of Blasphemy
8.Devil’s March
9.Rise of Serpent