There’s no need for me to explain how vast and glorious Poland’s extreme metal scene is, because you already know very well. I have great respect for many extreme metal bands coming from this country, but when I think of Poland, the first band that comes to mind is Infernal War. And honestly, in my personal opinion, Infernal War is one of the best black/death bands ever.
Before talking about the album, I want to point out something: this band, which started its propaganda in 1997, besides focusing on Satanism and anti-religion themes in their lyrics, also touches on World War II topics. For this reason, some people label them as an NSBM band. Frankly, I have never been certain about their exact political views. Maybe some individual members personally support NS ideology. This is a frequent issue in the Polish extreme metal scene. However, I came across the band’s statement saying: “Extreme and uncompromising black metal with no politics or similar things involved.”
Whether they are NSBM or not, it’s not worth much attention, because nothing can overshadow the extraordinary work this band has done.
Now, let’s move on to Infernal War’s 2009 mini-album titled Conflagrator. The album was released by Agonia Records and is available as CD, MCD, and vinyl.
Since their formation, Infernal War has absolutely, without compromise, reflected their uncompromising nature throughout this mini-album.
Running about 19 minutes in total and consisting of 5 tracks, the album stands out with its high-quality recording, speed, and incredible creativity.
Because it’s a 5-track, 19-minute album, it’s called a mini-album, but it’s truly a colossal masterpiece. The opening track, “Spears of Negation,” begins with a kind of mini intro merged with the song, and within seconds, the crushing brutality kicks in. Looking at the overall structure of the album, the tempo never drops; fast and aggressive music is accompanied by fiercely intense vocals.
Anyone familiar with Infernal War knows that they cannot be imagined without solos, and this album is no exception. There are plenty of solos here, and these are not some mediocre ones but solid, crushing solos. The second track, “Of Nihilistic Contentment,” needs little introduction. Although it’s hard to distinguish superiority among the songs, this is my favorite track. In one word: ANGRY.
Talking about tracks 3, 4, and 5, they are on the same technical level as the others, featuring flawless vocals, terrifying solos, extraordinary riffs, and relentless drum patterns that keep you breathless.
The album cover is simple and striking, designed exactly as it should be using plain colors. Unlike many bands who use meaningless symbols, drawings, and colorful themes that don’t match their lyrics or sound, this cover will immediately immerse you into the chaos within. The cover and design alone convey the aggressiveness, speed, and anger of these hellish demons.
There’s nothing bad or lacking on this album; it’s definitely a flawless masterpiece. Don’t worry about the short length—19 minutes is not enough time to fully digest this album. You’ll find yourself listening to it for hours, days, and again and again. I guarantee you’ll discover new things every time you listen.
I highly recommend that anyone who loves the genre get the original version of this album. For me, this album deserves a perfect 10 out of 10.
Band members on the album:
Warcrimer: Vocals
Godcrusher: Bass
Zyklon: Guitar
Triumphator: Guitar
Stormblast: Drums
Tracklist:
Spears Of Negation – 03:12
Of Nihilistic Contentment – 04:00
Blazing Impious Adoration – 04:49
The Holy Fall – 03:08
The Purifier – 03:29