Si monvmentvm reqvires, circvmspice cover

Si monvmentvm reqvires, circvmspice

Deathspell Omega · 2004

77 min · 13 tracks · black metal

A chaotic fusion of dissonant melodies and relentless rhythms, evoking a sense of existential dread and spiritual inquiry.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Sola Fide I — This track showcases the band's signature blend of dissonant guitar work and intricate drumming, creating an unsettling atmosphere that invites deep contemplation.
  • →
    Hétoïmasia — In this track, thematic complexity intertwines with musical experimentation, highlighting the band's ability to merge heavy riffs with philosophical undertones.
  • →
    Carnal Malefactor — As one of the longest tracks on the album, it encapsulates the band's ambitious scope while delving into themes of sin and redemption through intense sonic exploration.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

73 /100
Alpine
Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album's complex structure and dissonant sound create a unique experience within black metal.

What we noticed

  • The album features a non-linear structure, with tracks often shifting abruptly in tempo and intensity, creating a sense of chaos.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements and choral arrangements, adding an atmospheric depth that contrasts with the aggressive instrumentation.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
9/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • chaotic soundscapes of existential dread
  • intense explorations of spiritual themes
  • dynamic shifts in pacing and
  • immersive tracks for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

  • seek immediate melodic satisfaction
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2004, Si monvmentvm reqvires, circvmspice marked Deathspell Omega's third album and their artistic peak within the black metal genre. Following the critically acclaimed album, Inquisitions, the band further expanded their avant-garde approach by incorporating complex structures and philosophical themes into their music. This record solidified their reputation as innovators in the extreme metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Leviathan· Blut Aus Nord· Imperial Triumphant

Tracklist

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

  • 1 First Prayer 5:43
  • 2 Sola Fide I 5:14
  • 3 Sola Fide II 7:53
  • 4 Second Prayer 4:41
  • 5 Blessed Are the Dead Whiche Dye in the Lorde 5:47
  • 6 Hétoïmasia 7:08
  • 7 Third Prayer 3:57
  • 8 Si Monumentum Requires, Circumspice 6:32
  • 9 Odium nostrum 4:46
  • 10 Jubilate Deo (O Be Joyful in the Lord) 6:07
  • 11 Carnal Malefactor 11:45
  • 12 Drink the Devil’s Blood 4:32
  • 13 Malign Paradigm 3:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata