Antestor has been deified in the Christian metal kingdom, simply because they deliver quality black metal on a consistent basis. Furthermore, only a few other Christian groups have garnered acclaim from the secular community, namely Crimson Moonlight, Horde, and Kekal. Antestor, has predictably delivered another worthwhile full-length, which “Det Tapte Liv EP” prepared us for.

The album lifts off with the spectacular “Rites of Death.” Sound familiar? It should, because it was the opening track from the “Det Tapte Liv EP,” which was released last year. The addition of female vocalizations – to the beginning of “Rites of Death” – is strikingly similar to the Lord of the Rings soundtrack. “Old Times Cruelty” begins serenely, but reaches black metal territory at the 0:40 minute mark. As on their previous release, the mighty Hellhammer rests atop the drum throne. Piercing keyboard is inserted frequently on the disc; and, comparisons to Dimmu Borgir (“Enthrone Darkness Triumphant” era) and newer Emperor are certainly applicable. “Raade” is a symphonic interlude sandwiched betwixt two slabs of metal. “The Crown I Carry” returns to the black foray, while “Vale of Tears” is uncharacteristically slow for the Norwegians. “As I Die,” perhaps, is a whimsical number for Antestor due to the fact that the beginning sounds more suited to power metal than any other genre. Thankfully, however, the song does settle into heavier ground. “Mitt Hjerte” is the closing track, and is instrumental at that.

I’d be careful to not mistake Antestor’s religious leanings for weakness, because you’d be missing out on a very powerful album. “The Forsaken” is an amalgamation of innovation, energy, and anger, which makes for a formidable listen. Definitely recommended.

[This review was first published on the now defunct scandinavianmetal.info webzine]