adg211288 Satan’s Horde is a one track single release from black metal outfit Afterlight. It is their second release after the EP prophets of the Beast from 2009. Being just the one track, I’m going to keep this review short and to the point.

Satan’s Horde is a really excellent track. There may not be much material in this release but there’s a ton of quality going on in this five and a half minute blast. The sound is raw but not so much as to not appeal to those who like their music better produced that what most raw black metal offers. I would go as far to say that Afterlight have found just the right level on a production standpoint for this style of music. It still sounds like black metal, but nothing is lost because of poor production, you have here what is going on with the instruments, and what is going on is surprisingly melodic and technical for this genre. There are times during the track where the bass guitar is particularly audible and the playing is extremely impressive. Personally I think these sections really fit well with the guitars, which provide strong riffs throughout. The vocals fit very nicely with the music. All in all an excellent track. This band deserves the opportunity to make a full length album next. I’m giving this track a full marks without hesitation. Personally I find it better than much established black metal I’ve heard.

(Originally written for Heavy Metal Haven)