From the debut release of Griseus in 2011, Australia’s Aquilus and its sole creator Horace Rosenqvist has not only created atmospheric metal but music that defies all expectations. His third release Bellum II concludes a journey eight years in the making delivered in two parts.
Bellum II is not just a record as it is a wholly sensory experience that is as demanding as it is rewarding. Trying to describe it is akin to trying to recollect the textures of a memory or a specific emotion in time. It is a personal event that uses all of Rosenqvist formidable talents. Bellum II is not as furious as its predecessor, yet it is brilliant, the black metal and its aesthetic still runs through its creative veins. It is also a classical neo folk marvel of songwriting prowess that is genre less and musically creative without peer.
‘’ Nigh To Her Gloam’’ is a sixteen-minute masterpiece that is a detailed multifaceted experience, that trying to accurately describe it is a disservice to its beauty, its grandiose pathos, its acoustic minimalism…. its everything. The classical is intertwined with the simplest and beautiful of piano melodies that weave in synchronicity with extreme music. Mayhem versus serene, literal beauty versus darkness, joy, and sorrow. The range of instruments used to create a pallet of divergent thoughts and passion is underrated and is purely for the completion of the creative power and subtlety that Bellum II possesses. ‘’ The Pillared Dark’’ is more creative epic genius and ‘’Sombre Loom’’ is comparatively brief in comparison, a classically inspired marvel that is also incredibly delicate whilst being a crescendo-building amalgamation of emotion.
Evocative, passionate and all-encompassing. Bellum II is a solo vision now rendered complete over two incredible pieces of work that will and stand above all of its peers. It is a celebration of music and pure talent that is undeniable and a tour de force of talent and emotion.
Aquilus: Facebook
Release Year: 2024
Label: Northern Silence Productions
Category: Album
Country: Australia
Reviewed by Sparky
