Review by Jerome on December 12, 2022.

Let's place ourselves at the turn of the second millennium, a time when the distribution of music via the internet was just beginning. In the far reaches of Norway, black metal had already taken root, however, many of the founding bands were experimenting with completely different musical styles, some even abandoning the style entirely. At the center of this identity crisis was a central question for any band interested in pursuing this new style of metal; "Should we innovate or rely on a sound similar to Norwegian bands?"

Now, some 20 years later, Liminal Shroud proves once again that the trials and innovations of the early 2000s have paid off. Indeed, at the first listening of their new album All Virtues Ablaze some will be surprised by the versatility that the band can exercise from one composition to another. This album, consisting of four songs, relies on multiple influences. The first composition, 'Hypoxic' is everything standard in the rather melodic scene led by a figure of prow such as Mgła and more recently popularized by Uada. Although the composition is faithful to the style, it does not revolutionize the musical style.

It is from the second composition that the influences of rather post-black metal are heard. The major chords remind of the best moments of Imperium Dekadenz, Der Weg Einer Freiheit or Winterfylleth. 'Mists Along Florencia' is indeed an interesting piece not only for its more post-black leanings, but also for its inclusion of a breakdown section in the middle of the composition, a signature rather linked to the punk world.

The next two pieces, 'Transmigration I - Pelagic Vois' and 'Transmigration II - The Cleansing Ash', push the post metal influences even further and we find ourselves, at times, in the middle of sections reminiscent of atmospheric sludge bands the likes of Isis or Cult Of Luna. The last piece of Transmigration II ends rather with an accent on melancholy and ends with an excellent crescendo, showing the power of black metal.

Liminal Shroud has demonstrated, through their album All Virtues Ablaze, that innovation in black metal has taken the style to a higher level. If you have an interest in black metal, I highly suggest this album.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Review by Jerome on December 12, 2022.

Let's place ourselves at the turn of the second millennium, a time when the distribution of music via the internet was just beginning. In the far reaches of Norway, black metal had already taken root, however, many of the founding bands were experimenting with completely different musical styles, some even abandoning the style entirely. At the center of this identity crisis was a central question for any band interested in pursuing this new style of metal; "Should we innovate or rely on a sound similar to Norwegian bands?"

Now, some 20 years later, Liminal Shroud proves once again that the trials and innovations of the early 2000s have paid off. Indeed, at the first listening of their new album All Virtues Ablaze some will be surprised by the versatility that the band can exercise from one composition to another. This album, consisting of four songs, relies on multiple influences. The first composition, 'Hypoxic' is everything standard in the rather melodic scene led by a figure of prow such as Mgła and more recently popularized by Uada. Although the composition is faithful to the style, it does not revolutionize the musical style.

It is from the second composition that the influences of rather post-black metal are heard. The major chords remind of the best moments of Imperium Dekadenz, Der Weg Einer Freiheit or Winterfylleth. 'Mists Along Florencia' is indeed an interesting piece not only for its more post-black leanings, but also for its inclusion of a breakdown section in the middle of the composition, a signature rather linked to the punk world.

The next two pieces, 'Transmigration I - Pelagic Vois' and 'Transmigration II - The Cleansing Ash', push the post metal influences even further and we find ourselves, at times, in the middle of sections reminiscent of atmospheric sludge bands the likes of Isis or Cult Of Luna. The last piece of Transmigration II ends rather with an accent on melancholy and ends with an excellent crescendo, showing the power of black metal.

Liminal Shroud has demonstrated, through their album All Virtues Ablaze, that innovation in black metal has taken the style to a higher level. If you have an interest in black metal, I highly suggest this album.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Review by Wiley on April 20, 2010.

From the crescendo, dripping with reverb and atmosphere; Sleeping Village cement the notion they are a fine addition to the new wave of Experimental Black Metal. That wonderful new sub-subgenre firing with embers of creation and painfully steep cliffs for them to hurl off into the dark night. The more distorted and traditionally black segments more akin to waves slamming against rocks. The warmth is mild, but perfect in keeping with their attack that lends itself more to post punk lingering than blistering attack. Sure, blasts abound, but the melodies seem half timed and droning so the overall feel is more low and soothing. Broken up by wonderful wedges of semi acoustic almost folk and flooded vistas of samples and experimental synth-wrenching.

The guitars are cold, smooth and fluid - so much without the bass filling out the lower frequencies there might be nothing of a discernable melody when the pace does pick up. The vocals fall under the same mix with a palette of non distinct belching (third rate Esoteric??). When the more avant touches are applied (see track 'Out Of The Way'), the soundscape does seem to be a bit confined and too drawn out. Like exploring a hallway rather than the physical representation of emotion or ideal. Let that not be a distraction though as it seems they combed every inch of that hallway thoroughly with textures to spare - it just might be a bit unnecessarily long and out of place. There are keyboard treatments, but think not of rehash symphonic crap - they actually took the time to see where the sounds would fit the best and do more for the composition rather than just "be there". For those fans of Negura Bunget, Wolves In The Throne Room, Alcest, and Xasthur - this would be a welcome addition to any late night.

The sort of production displayed here is as top form as any in this genre. This isnt the sort of thing you would want to have the production of say a new Dark Tranquility album. In fact the over all vibe is more of a one up on Emperor's "In The Nightside Eclipse" during it's more scathing moments but with an even clearer and more distinct presence (keys and the seperation of bass, guitar, and drums) and nicer cleans by far.

Artwork compliments of Diramazioni Studio - wonderful stills and zooms of nature's vibrant green. Dare it be said - a package of 'organic' and 'earthy' motifs well composed. The contrast being rocky close ups and a very scratchy rendering for the inside case itself. This entire EP is well represented and definitely shows the sparks of a project on the way to greater fields of exploration.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship:8.0
Atmosphere: 8.5
Production: 7.5
Originality: 7.5
Overall: 8.0

Rating: 8.0 out of 10