Review by Wiley on May 19, 2009.

I should preface this review with a warning: If you do not possess an open mind, do not bother. Sure I could add exceptions, but those without the open mindedness to take in this CD are not worthy of partaking in the journey.

Dol Theeta hails from Greece with their particular brand of experimental music worlds. Begining with sampling explaining light hypnosis with backwards tracking of whispering creating a ghostly portal to flow through. From the second track on you are treated to some simply stunning synthscapes, and were that all I probably would be reviewing this elsewhere. Through patience one finds themselves floating in and out amongst frequencies and vibrations, only to be pummeled by guitar, vocal, and drum treatments abound. This guitar is carried with a moderate mix,and one would expect a very industrial take, this would not be a bad assumption, except for the guitars do not land flat without character. Bends and harmonics add personality to the rythms, and the leads are well thought out and executed. The vocals on the other hand are a completely different matter. Operatic soprano Kortessa really outdoes her role, with full harmonies left and right. Very soothing and well done, this is one of the few times I think they fit more as an instrument than plain vocals.

To completely dispel what may also be lurking in your mind at this point of the drums, becuz the drums are so organic and on point.
The drums move very naturally and alive with groove and hook to provide another bit of diversion from the synths that JUST DONT STOP........When a track ends, I am left anxious as to what could possibly be next. Thus would be the point here, with a universe that continues to expand on and on. If one were to have to try to compare this to anyone I am afraid the closest I could come in genre bending would be Arcturus' last album, or some of the later Ulver material. If I start doing that though, I would have to recommend also to fans of Coil, and early Current 93. So lets not go there and move on to the issues at hand.

I am simply amazed at how full this disc sounds, this is so well composed for the movements in which they wish to travel. Dol Theeta truly are doing unique things, blurring the lines between many genre's too vast to name, and doing so extremely tastefully. It would probably also be wise to point out their attention to quality and detail, as so many bands get bogged down with such details and lose focus of the vision originally sighted. Even their artwork suggests a good bit of thought as to what to use, and what a wonderful visual representation in vivid color adourning not only my promo sleeve here - but well secured artwork as well printed on the CD - what use of space!!!!!!!!! I do so wish them as they continue on their journey treading some new otherworldly paths with their next release.

To leave you without giving a suggested manner of listening would be a sin. Dim the lights, prepare a calming relaxing concoction and grab your nicestm headphones. Lie back on your couch, close your eyes and get drowned.........

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7.5
Atmosphere:9.0
Production: 7.5
Originality: 10
Overall: 8.0

Rating: 8.4 out of 10

Review by Felix on September 24, 2023.

Take the pathos of Graveland, the aesthetic of Summoning in more metallic form and the theatrical element of a band like Hell. If everything is mixed in the right dose, the result can be something like Det Gamle’s Rex Lucifer. I am listening to black metal here, even though the guys from Silesia prefer a pretty mild approach. Vehement outbursts are rare, while orchestral sections do not only show up from time to time. Atmosphere plays an important role, but do not think of icy landscapes or dreary fjords in pale autumn light. Det Gamle offer a subliminal eeriness which takes slowly possession of the listener without putting the focus on cheap shock effects. The Eastern European language and the expressed individuality of the group sometimes puts them a little close to Master's Hammer and there is a certain intersection with the very special mood of “The Jilemnice Occultist” - or does it just seem that way to me because the languages in Eastern Europe all sound very similar for a guy with dirty German ears?

Either way, some things can be said clearly. Despite the melodic and rather slow-to-mid-paced songs, the band is never at risk to deliver a sugary performance. They can spell the word “ambient”, no doubt about it, but this is no kitschy gothic shit or commercial-orientated metal. Yes, from time to time there is one violin too many, but the beastly component of the song material always shimmers through the deceptive beauty of the dignified sections. And, thank Lucifer, there are also some pretty violent parts, for example in 'Piekielny Ornament'. Actually, it's inexplicable that such a strong title is hidden in position eight, but better late than never. On the other hand, a rather average track has won the place after the intro. Lucifer Rex is no perfect album, but typical fillers also do not appear.

Of course, if you hate keyboards in black metal or general, you should better stay away from Lucifer Rex. But the guitars are also nearly omnipresent and they deliver the edgy touch it needs to take the album seriously. 'Siedem Trąb Apocalipsy', the song with the most obvious Summoning influence, marks a prime example for the almost perfect balance between these two opponents. Moreover, it houses very strong melody lines and a perfect arrangement. A song like the following 'Krzyż W Kąt' represents the more dramatic and intense pieces. It proves evidence that Det Gamle are able to handle both approaches cleverly… and fortunately they have found the right sound for their material. The output does not lack transparency and gives all instruments enough room to breathe. So now it’s your turn, are you interested in getting in touch with a mix of Graveland, Summoning and Hell? Maybe with an additional pinch of Cradle of Filth eroticism? Then ask for an audience with Lucifer Rex.

Rating: 7.8 out of 10