Cirith Gorgor – Cirith Gorgor (LP)

Back in the 90s, Cirith Gorgor was the first Dutch band at the time to sign with Osmose Productions. It was quite a big deal to be on the same label as Marduk and Immortal, and I still remember the interview in Aardschok magazine. The band released two albums and as the band grew they later also worked with Ketzer Records and Hammerheart Records.

This self-titled album is the band’s fourth full-length and show a perfect balance of full-on aggression and melodies through wellwritten song structures. Founding member Levithmong is at the top of his game behind the drums. The aggression and riffing brilliance from the first two albums “Onwards” and “Unveiling” are easily matched, but this time also executed with superior precision, making this arguably the strongest album in Cirith Gorgor’s discography. No keyboards, no cheesy gothic, no symphonic, no weak boring filler intros – the focus on strong riffs and sheer aggression makes this a gem of old style fast melodic black metal that is recommended to fanatics of old Dark Funeral, old Enthroned, old Immortal. This self-titled was originally released in 2007 and is in a way the last in its style as changes in the lineup caused a small shift in the sound later on.

The album has now been fully remixed in 2022 by Toneshed and with new vocals recorded by current vocalist Pestus. This violent black metal storm features eight chants to the Devil for a total of 50 minutes, and is now released on vinyl LP for the first time ever. The LP is completely produced in The Netherlands; instead of opting for low quality product or low-wages countries, Heidens Hart are working with a high quality pressing plant in their own country to present a great sounding luxurious vinyl edition, which does this album justice on all levels.

– Completely remixed and remastered;
– Newly recorded vocals;
– Gatefold sleeve on heavy inside-out cardboard;
– Heavy 180 gr, red/black marble vinyl;
– 12 page large sized booklet with lyrics, photos, etc.