Released back in 2007 through Lithuania’s Ledo Takis Records is a split between Lithuanian bands Luctus and Argharus. Luctus, which is basically the solo project of the man of the same name has been around since 2001 and to date has released two demos, two EPs, a best of compilation and recently his first full length album. While, yes, this band is regarded as solo endeavor there are session live members and a session drummer participated for this particular recording.
Musically Luctus is fast hard hitting brutal blackened thrash metal that’s not entirely different from such acts as Carpathian Forest, Melechesh or Absu, but Luctus seems to be a bit faster and I think they definitely have their own identity. What makes them similar is the use of full-on harsh black metal screaming and the large amount of absolutely killer head banging riffs and quality drumming. Other similarities I see to Carpathian Forest would be the rocking groove riffs that at least for me really manage to get me going until the band hits with more brutal music. I really can’t say which song is best because frankly they are all completely excellent, but, 'Filthy Blood, Guts and Shit' has often times been a song to turn to when I'm in a foul mood and need some intense music to cleanse my mind. Luctus demolishes their listeners with superb speedy musicianship, a great sense of catchiness, insanely killer vocals and they offer up a large amount of hate, and frankly its incredible. Luctus excels at their craft marvelously and I can definitely tell you I really need to finally get my hands on the bands 2009 debut, 'Jaučiant Pabaigą Arti.' If brutal energetic blackened thrash is your thing than definitely don't miss out on this band. I fucking love the six songs on this split!
Argharus formed back in 2004, although they have no demos behind them they did however release their debut album, 'Plei'tas' last year. Musically these guys offer up a more traditional black metal approach that is both speedy to mid-paced in range. Their music basically alternates between blistering fast playing to a slightly less speedy style that is filled with decent melodic riffs and great tormented screams. Their performance isn’t as stunning as Luctus’, but the four songs here are still great and I can definitely sense Argharus has much more to offer and perhaps they shine through on their debut. In any case, these guys are another band I really need to catch up with and hopefully soon I'll get my hands on their debut and see where they are at nowadays.
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