Review by Jack on June 5, 2003.

Amongst a metal world full of deathly gazes and consistently depressing moments, Runemagick are something of an eternal-continuum in the doom and death metal scene. Never quite attaining the immortal greatness to truly raise them above the bands that just 'hover,' yet always putting out records that have some truly fantastic material, Runemagick might appear something of a frustration.

Last year's "Requiem of the Apocalypse" was certainly a solid record, yet didn't really smack you in the face with its sheer force, and it definitely wouldn't win any excitement awards. One for fans of the genre. This year round, Runemagick haven't really changed their approach towards their darkness death doom brand of metal, they just seemed to have refined and worked on their art to such an amount that it doesn't stagnate out of favour like "Requiem of the Apocalypse" had a tendency to.

"Darkness Death Doom" has a peculiar vibe to it that hasn't been present on past Runemagick outings. More atmosphere that seems to take on an almost tangible element definitely points "Darkness Death Doom" in the right direction. The opening three tracks 'Intro – CDXLIV,' 'Ancient Incantations' and 'Eyes of Kali' are all worked together with a strong Egyptian ambience that really sets an interesting mood for the rest of "Darkness Death Doom" to build on. It's a tough record to describe, really. Runemagick have managed to put together "Darkness Death Doom" in such a way that while it still remains at its core a doom and death record, there are enough interesting elements to keep most listeners very content.

Bottom Line: With the most appropriate record title in history (seriously... this is the most aptly titled album ever) "Darkness Death Doom" is a disc that lovers of old school death metal, and slightly newer wave of doom metal will jump right into without a worry in the world; brutal, yet mysteriously calming. The Runemagick warhorse keeps on running.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7.5
Atmosphere: 8.5
Production: 7
Originality: 7.5
Overall: 7

Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Review by Alex on May 2, 2018.

Judaswiege play quickly and loudly, there is no messing around on Ashes of the Heretic. It delivers mighty blows of chaotic guitar leads, while speedy snare striking accolade's the barbarism being matched by the choky atmosphere lingering on the production.

Sounds of an organ being played on the title track add more menace to the cruel nature of the time phase being explored by Judaswiege. “The Executioner” is a favorite on the album; the first guitar solo at the 2:27 mark is neat and the second solo is slick but also has a very late 70s early 80s touch. The vocals sound as though a caveman has begun learning the basics of speech, however, instead of gently saying the words, he exclaims them loudly. It's a unique vocal signature that I enjoyed on “The Heretic” and the rest of the album; this also play's a key role in terms of the band’s originality. 

“The Mass Grave” is a mighty rainstorm of robust oeuvre. Swedish second wave black metal guitar tremolo picking takes the stand then diverts into thrash metal shredding and back. Fancy double bass is merged with standard one-two drumming mechanics to create a memorable musical experience for the listener.

The lyrics on Ashes of The Heretic deal with the misconduct and injustices committed by the Catholic Church during the Spanish Inquisition. I admire the 1-3 word lyrical lines within the verses; doing this lets the listener hear more of the music and prevents the songs from being overshadowed vocally.

If you're a fan of fast-paced drumming backed up by sinister sounding six-stringed strokes and a somewhat unique vocal output, then Judaswiege’s Ashes of The Heretic will surely satiate your request.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10