Rape of the Bastard Nazarene cover

Rape of the Bastard Nazarene

Akercocke · 1999

35 min · 12 tracks · black metal · death metal · heavy metal

A harrowing blend of blackened death metal and progressive structures, layered with haunting melodies and brutal intensity.

Why this album works

The album garnered critical acclaim for its ambitious compositions and thematic depth, earning a place among underground metal circles. It influenced subsequent acts in the blackened death metal genre and contributed to Akercocke's reputation as innovators within extreme music, helping to establish them as a notable force in the late 1990s metal landscape.
Best for
dynamic emotional journeys long immersive listening sessions gradual builds and payoffs
Context
Released as Akercocke's second album in 1999, 'Rape of the Bastard Nazarene' followed their debut, 'The Goat of Mendes.' This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing complex arrangements and lyrical themes that pushed the boundaries of extreme metal. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the UK metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Blasphemy· Persefone· Green Carnation

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Declaration 0:08
  • 2 Hell Standout 4:19
  • 3 Nadja 2:56
  • 4 The Goat 2:30
  • 5 Marguerite & Gretchen Standout 6:59
  • 6 Sephiroth Rising 1:11
  • 7 Zulieka 4:12
  • 8 Conjuration 1:57
  • 9 Il Giardino di Monte Oliveto Maggiore 4:00
  • 10 Justine Standout 5:09
  • 65 [silence] 0:04
  • 66 Luciferian Canto 2:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata