Akhkharu - Nocturnal Impiety (2000)

Originally wrote & published on December 5th, 2002

Akhkharu have a sound that would make you think they're Swedish or Norwegian, but this band is actually from Pennsylvania USA. The band's sound is a mix of Gothic, Black, and Dark metal with dual male and female vocals plus the band also has that symphonic sound which we often see today. By description you'd probably think these guys sound like Cradle of Filth or someone close to them. However, Akhkharu really doesn't sound too similar to those British lads.

Lead singer Keith uses a variety of vocal styles ranging from normal raspy black metal vocals, to low death growls, and he even uses some operatic like vocals in a few of these songs. He also plays the keyboards and guitar on this recording. His keyboard work on this album is a lot like his work with his solo dark ambient project Erebus. -- if you've heard that then you know what to expect. One of the real highlights of this album is female singer Lauren's excellent vocals. She doesn't sing in the operatic style, but instead just uses normal singing and does a great job. I think she performs best on, 'Garden of Desire.' The music portion of this album is very melodic and mid paced sounding. Yes there are a few moments when the music picks up, but they're few and far.

Although Akhkharu has a sound I normally enjoy quite a bit there's just something about this album that turns me off to it. I'm not even sure what it is, and that's what's so weird about it. The production could use some work, and I wish the music was a bit faster, and it would be nice if the keyboards were a bit more interesting sounding. Minor complaints, but still this album is definitely recommended for the fans that can't get enough of this style.