Merciless, hateful, primitive, diabolical, and fiercely anti-religious — there are many fitting descriptions for the French black metal band Deathspell Omega. When they emerged, no one knew the identities of the members; for years, guesses were all fans had until the names Shaxul and Mikko Aspa surfaced. Shaxul needs little introduction in the scene — known from bands like Hirilorn and the legendary Japanese Old School Thrash/Black metal group Sabbat, where he contributed guest vocals. Mikko Aspa is also recognized from numerous projects, primarily Clandestine Blaze. However, Shaxul’s departure marked a turning point for many fans, as Deathspell Omega’s subsequent musical direction changed noticeably.
Formed in 1998, their second album Inquisitors of Satan set the definitive tone and stance of the band, far darker and more intense than their debut Infernal Battles. It delivers a grim atmosphere with extremely fast drums, oppressive and violent riffs, and sharp, tortured screams that capture the most savage, satanic, merciless, and filthy aspects of black metal. For a black metal record, the production is remarkably well-balanced — guitars, drums, and vocals all clearly audible. The instruments articulate the satanic, destructive, and nihilistic themes with piercing screams by Shaxul that slice through the lyrics.
Although some riffs repeat, this never becomes tedious because they are solid, crushing, and excellently composed. While the drumming might seem simplistic in parts, it’s precise and perfectly complements the guitar riffs throughout the album.
As an Old School black metal record, Inquisitors of Satan also achieves a cleaner and more modern sound, blending raw aggression with melodic touches simultaneously. The album contains 7 tracks spanning roughly 40 minutes — a 40-minute scream of pure hatred.
Deathspell Omega masterfully combines elements from 80s Old School Black/Thrash metal bands and the second wave of pure black metal, arguably better than anyone else. Their ideology and uncompromising music provide a lesson on how black metal should be. They display the most raw and brutal side of Norwegian black metal standards, incorporating signature tremolo riffs with some thrash-influenced parts. Influences range from Celtic Frost, Morbid Saint, Hellhammer, Bathory to early Darkthrone, Beherit, and Judas Iscariot.
Regarding individual tracks: the opener From Unknown Lands of Desolation hits suddenly with screams, unleashing all its fury at your face. The drums, except for some slow sections, relentlessly drive the fast tempo and perfectly sync with the guitars. Desecration Master, one of the standout tracks, consists of rapid segments connected by numerous riff and tempo changes. Succubus of All Vices showcases Shaxul’s outstanding vocal prowess — his high-pitched, piercing screams embody intense rage and passion. The closing track Decadence impresses with oppressive, suffocating riffs.
The minimalist and straightforward instrumentation, combined with clean production, greatly enhance the album’s impact. With nihilism, chaos, and satanism at its core, Inquisitors of Satan delivers honest black metal that never compromises its roots. The raw, hateful, and primal black metal sound is enriched by thrash elements, presented without any unnecessary embellishments.
After this album, the departure of Shaxul — the mastermind behind the band — left Deathspell Omega without a vital element, sparking much debate about their future directions. Nonetheless, their first two albums remain masterpieces and essential listens. They are crucial in distinguishing authentic black metal from its counterfeit forms. Remember that.