J-Man German black metal is often characterized by war-themed lyrics and never-ending blastbeats, but if that's what you're expecting from Bavaria-based black metal act Infestus, prepare to be let down. Rather than living in the shadows of the genre's pioneers, this one-man black metal act has developed its own brand of atmospheric black metal - and it is delivered spectacularly on Ex ‏| Ist. This, the third full-length album from Infestus, is an extremely impressive masterwork from Andras that should satisfy most black metal fans seeking an adventurous listen.

The music on Ex ‏| Ist is atmospheric black metal, but with a few twists. Long, semi-progressive compositions characterized by sinister and evil atmospheres make up virtually the entire album, and Andras does a fantastic job conveying this dark feeling. Tortured vocals, punishing black metal riffs, and relentless drumming are very much present on Ex ‏| Ist - but that's certainly not all the album has to offer. Dark atmospheres are conveyed throughout the entire album, using more melodic sections with keyboards or acoustic guitars to help create fantastic contrast between the heavier sections. Melody is also present throughout much of the album, even without utilizing these additional instruments. The way Infestus manages to seamlessly blend harsh black metal with melody and atmosphere is truly outstanding. And to think that this entire effort was created by only one man makes it even more remarkable!

Unlike many one-man black metal acts, the musicianship on Ex ‏| Ist is actually fantastic! Andras is a great musician, and his drumming and fretwork particularly stand out. The drum patterns on Ex ‏| Ist are truly punishing and the varied guitar styles are also noteworthy. I also enjoy his tortured, low-register vocal style quite a lot. Another surprising aspect of Ex ‏| Ist is the sheer strength of the production - although this may turn off some old school black metal purists, I think the clear and professional sound here is spectacular.

I was very much impressed by this effort from Infestus, and I have no hesitation in calling it one of the best black metal albums that 2011 has to offer. Ex ‏| Ist is one of those few albums that manages to create an absolutely sinister atmosphere without ever sounding monotonous or boring. It may take a few spins to latch on, but it's certainly worth letting Ex ‏| Ist reveal itself over time. This is an album that's challenging, emotional, and professional in every sense of the word - that spells out quality for me. 4 stars are well-deserved in this case.

Vehemency One-man black metal projects rarely showcase as qualified handling of instruments as Infestus does here on his third full-length Ex ‏| Ist, a majestic opus of atmospheric black metal executed in a bright, massive soundscape, thematically revolving around inner turmoil which is successfully put to practice in these long compositions where desperation meets anger. This all forms a very professional sounding and endurable whole though the album does have its flaws as well.‏‏‏

The instrumental ”Akoasma” begins the journey, shifting from double bass frenzies to portentous acoustic guitars and solos, following closely the footsteps of Shining. Next up is ”Down Spiral Personification” which is more evidently black metal but with a good dose of fitting melody therein, making it a highlight of the album. ”Darkness Blazing the Flame of Fire” crawls with moderate speed and murky riffs until it explodes to blast beats and vicious tremolo riffs like the track before it, the same applying to ”Mirror Mind Reality” and basically the rest of the album. That is not to say that the songs repeat themselves, no, every track here incorporates multiple interesting sections within their long playing times, ensuring wholly enjoyable rides through varying tempos and moods.

During the last two pieces, ”Der Blick Hinaus” and ”Descend Direction Void”, a plenty of acoustic sections are added to the middle of the metal, working exceptionally well on the latter, doom-driven song that ends the album with reverb-laden repeated acoustic pattern. Not to be forgotten, either, is the album’s short centerpiece ”Torn Obsever” which is filled with pulsating rhythms and melodies reeking of dissonant evil.

Not all riffs on the long course of Ex | Ist truly stand out with splendor, but when looking at the big picture, there’s no way calling the album a failed attempt at proper black metal darkness. Once again it must be stated that it’s impressive how good sounding whole has mere one man created here - it’s apparent that this album has been a long time in the making. A recommended album if you’re into not-that-traditional black metal and seek for fresher ideas and good productions sound-wise.