Is Now, Diabolical a good place to start with Satyricon?

Yes, Now, Diabolical is recommended as a starting point for new Satyricon listeners. A relentless exploration of dark atmospheres and aggressive rhythms that define modern black metal's evolution. By the time of its release in 2006, Satyricon was well-established within the black metal scene, following their acclaimed album 'Volcano' from 2002. 'Now, Diabolical' marked a continued evolution in their sound, incorporating more melodic elements while maintaining a raw intensity that had characterized their earlier work. This album came during a period when the band was solidifying their status as pioneers in blending traditional black metal with contemporary influences.

Who is Now, Diabolical for?

Now, Diabolical works well if you're into steady pacing with climactic tension, immersive listening for dark moods and headphone detail hunting experience.

How many songs are on Now, Diabolical?

Now, Diabolical has 8 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Now, Diabolical

Satyricon · 2006

44 min · 8 tracks · black metal

A relentless exploration of dark atmospheres and aggressive rhythms that define modern black metal's evolution.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Now, Diabolical Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's core themes of chaos and defiance, showcasing Satyricon's signature heavy riffs coupled with haunting melodies.
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K.I.N.G — This track exemplifies the band's ability to fuse aggression with melody, featuring intricate guitar work and a captivating chorus that stands out in their discography.
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The Rite of Our Cross — With its anthemic structure and powerful lyrics, this song represents a pivotal moment where Satyricon embraces both heaviness and lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album balances aggression with melody, showcasing strong production and songwriting while maintaining a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features rapid-fire drumming and layered guitar riffs, establishing a high-energy pace from the start.
Several tracks incorporate melodic elements alongside aggressive rhythms, creating a contrast that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The final track features an extended instrumental outro that gradually fades out, allowing for a reflective conclusion to the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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 pacing with climactic tension
immersive listening for dark moods
headphone detail hunting experience
nighttime journeys into intensity

Maybe skip if you

seeking lighthearted, upbeat tracks
prefering short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debuted at number one in Norway, marking a significant achievement for the band.
Career context: By the time of its release in 2006, Satyricon was well-established within the black metal scene, following their acclaimed album 'Volcano' from 2002. 'Now, Diabolical' marked a continued evolution in their sound, incorporating more melodic elements while maintaining a raw intensity that had characterized their earlier work. This album came during a period when the band was solidifying their status as pioneers in blending traditional black metal with contemporary influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Darkthrone· Emperor· Immortal