Released 20 years ago
Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam
Gorgoroth · 2006
31 min · 8 tracks · black metal
A blistering onslaught of ferocious riffs and haunting melodies, steeped in the dark traditions of Norwegian black metal.
Top tracks — play these first
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Wound Upon Wound — Opening with relentless intensity, this track captures the raw aggression that defines the album while interlacing haunting melody lines that exemplify Gorgoroth's complex arrangements.
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God Seed (Twilight of the Idols) — This track stands out for its intricate guitar work and atmospheric build-up, representing the band's ability to blend chaos with melodic elements effectively.
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Prosperity and Beauty — Concluding the album, this track juxtaposes harsh vocals with a surprisingly melodic structure, challenging conventional black metal norms and leaving a lasting impression.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and production, solidifying Gorgoroth's identity in black metal despite lineup changes.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a relentless barrage of blast beats and tremolo-picked riffs, establishing a high-energy intensity that persists throughout.
- Each track features abrupt tempo shifts, often transitioning from fast-paced sections to slower, more atmospheric passages.
- The vocal delivery alternates between guttural growls and shrieks, enhancing the chaotic feel of the music while maintaining a consistent thematic darkness.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- short, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In 2006, Gorgoroth was navigating a tumultuous phase marked by lineup changes and legal disputes. This album followed their 2004 release, 'Sodomize the Goat,' showcasing a renewed focus on their signature sound amidst internal conflicts within the band.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Mayhem· Darkthrone· Immortal
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Wound Upon Wound 3:31
- 2 Carving a Giant 4:10
- 3 God Seed (Twilight of the Idols) 4:15
- 4 Sign of an Open Eye 4:05
- 5 White Seed 4:37
- 6 Exit 3:31
- 7 Untamed Forces 2:37
- 8 Prosperity and Beauty 4:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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