An Existence Regained (Self Released)

 No Hand Path is a quite new Greek Black Metal band formed in 2005, which include two members, Sotiris and Haris (on bass and drums respectively) of the renowned Greek act Varathron. The band released a demo entitled “First Farewell” in 2006, and remained silent until now... “An Existence Regained” is the band first full length album, and the first work of this band I have the pleasure of listening to. Musically No Hand Path deliver here an intense, complex and exquisite form of Black Metal, combining atmospheric, metallic and melodic elements into a powerful and avantgardish opus. The varied atmospheres of this album flow over a wide range of tempos and a richly arranged musicianship reminding me at moments of the brutal beauty of Solefald’s “Linear Scaffold” album… some more traditional Black Metal influences can be also found on this record, specially noticeable at the blasting fast passages, where the strident wall of riffs in conjunction with an unmerciful drumming will probably bring to your mind the freezing sound of Immortal… Along with the outstanding musicianship, the vocal work is absolutely remarkable, dealing perfectly with different tones of harsh, blackish screams and different styles of clean voices; the incredibly varied lead vocal performance can be heard along the entire album complemented by some interesting and intelligently placed secondary vocal arrangements, which enormously enriches the whole album’s atmospheres… The majestic music is backgrounded by a solid and intellectual concept divided in three song trilogies, which deals with obscure and poetic visions about the spiritual growing and the rebirth that implies… Make yourself a favour and listen to this record, “An Existence Regained” is definitely a rock-solid album and a challenging milestone in the band’s career... (AP)