Review by Stephen Pedicino
Behemoth are back! Well, kind of….its an EP. I’ve never been much for EPs because all they typically do is tease me with small samples of new material and live recordings of songs I’ve heard many times before. Hence, they are difficult to review. Although, sometimes they can be more than just a tease. For instance, the limited edition of Ezkaton was released in a deluxe box with a Behemoth pendant and four 7” picture discs! However, I wasn’t fortunate enough to receive a copy of that edition (*coughs* Rachel) ;-) But hey, in the end, the music is what matters!
The first treat we’re given is a new, modernized recording of “Chant for Eschaton 2000.” It’s faster and more ferocious than the original (recorded nearly ten years ago) and is the same tempo at which Behemoth play it live. They usually finish their sets with this song, but here we have it at the start! Coo coo for Coco Puffs!!! Unless you have severe ADD, your interest will probably be perked by this killer track.
Out of seven tracks, only one will be completely new to the public’s ears. “Qadosh,” which will be featured on Behemoth’s next full-length album, will reassure all those faithful disciples that this Polish force has not “sold out” or let their success go to their head. Its honest and as genuinely crafted as anything Behemoth have produced thus far. The utter brutality meshed with mechanized precision is already making me salivate in anticipation of their next offering. Initially, the song was supposed to be released on The Apostasy but was simply cut from the roster when the time came. I guess Nergal thought the album would have been too good if it were included? If it’s a sample of things to come, I’m convinced us fans won’t be let down.
And now for the covers! You guys ready for some of Green Day’s “Time of Your Life” Behemoth-style?
Did I scare you?
“Jama Pekel” is a cover of Czech legends, Master’s Hammer. Guest vocals are supplied by Big Boss and Igor, both of whom are from the eccentric dark metal band Root (also from the Czech Republic). The song structure is lightning-fast, ragingly addictive, but also epic. WARNING: May induce extreme headbanging.
The second cover off this EP is of “I’m Not Jesus” by The Ramones. It clocks in at less than three minutes and is the shortest track you’ll hear. Personally, I was never into The Ramones but I’m assuming Behemoth have been influenced by them in some way. Regardless, it’s interesting to hear them cover a song that is clearly extraneous to their natural genre. I’m just glad they didn’t do Blink 182……
The third phase of Exkaton presents live recordings of “From the Pagan Vastlands,” “Decade of Therion,” and the timeless “Chant for Eschaton 2000.” Behemoth are brutal in any set of speakers, but in a live setting you can truly feel every ounce of their tenacity. Flawlessly played… (ok, a few slight exceptions here and there, but have you seen these guys windmill when they play?) Some people actually prefer Nergal’s live vocals over the studio recordings. You be the judge. All three songs are clear yet sound raw enough to convey that special live aura. It’s not hard to envision them on stage with their spikes, armor and face paint while listening.
The runtime is only 28 minutes but the punch Ezkaton packs should provide enough replay value to any endearing death metal head. This EP offers a condensed showcase of Behemoth and a favorable hint as to the quality of their next album. I for one can’t friggin’ wait!!!