The Summary Judgment Review:
Title: Sirens
Artist: Astarte
Label: Magick Records
Release Date: 2/15/05

Rating: 4 Skulls
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    • Reviewed by Behemoth (10/4/05):
    This group began their career with a roster which utilized interesting names such as psyhoslaughter, nemesis, and tristessa - nice. They branded themselves initially as Lloth, the mighty queen seductress of gods and mortals. In 1997, they officially became Astarte and recorded their first demo entitled Dancing In the Dark Lakes Of Evil which was fast and aggressive with ample atmospherics and mystical sounds.

    Shortly thereafter the band wisely entered the world of black metal with the release of Doomed Dark Years which gained the attention of a budding European fan base. The band evolved with Rise From Within which demonstrated a bit more complexity and aggressive rage and hatred espoused. The band continued along the dark path, paused a bit to pay tribute to Celtic Frpst on a compilation album. Label-wise the band spent some time on both Avant-garde Records and Black Lotus, before heading into Tico Tico studios in Finland for the new album.

    This record brings us a new chapter in female black metal, but really this isn't that harsh at all, which is fine. The release of Sirens is a logical progression for Astarte who produces fascinating aural fantasies. The ten tracks of metal are well supported throughout with powerful guitar harmonies and acoustics. For a true perspective envision "Black Mighty Gods" or perhaps the title track of Sirens. The atmospheric darkness is spellbinding, comparatively speaking, may we suggest Warlock aka Doro and mix in a heavy day from Moonspell. There are definite demonic underpinnings conveyed through the blackened lyrics, which belie hatred and conjuring of the dead - all right! However, the darkness is well balanced by enchanting keyboards / piano, and instrumental passages.
    4 out of 5

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