For news: go here ADDED 010808 * In the beginning so it will always be. While there are others who can perhaps lay claim to a higher profile, a more controversial history and even to greater commercial success, there is truly only one band who define black metal through the ages: Emperor. Not so much regal riffmeisters as deities of decibelic diabolism. For nearly a decade, ever since the appearance of the cult 'Wrath Of The Tyrant' demo, Emperor have constantly challenged the concepts and precepts of black metal, forever dicing with their careers by taking musical risks that no others in the genre would even contemplate. From the release of their acclaimed 1994 debut album, 'In The Nightside Eclipse', right up until 2001's 'Prometheus: The Discipline Of Fire & Demise', the band have always agitated, prodded and pushed, always looking for that extra musical energy and vibrancy. Combing a myriad musical mantra, and combining a guitar-obsessed brutality with jazz inflections and rhythmic classicism, the core trio of Ihsahn (vocals, lead guitars, bass, keyboard, keyboard and programming), Samoth (guitar) and Trym (drums) continue to astound and confound with a style that is essentially theatrically dark, laden with a superior respect for the great traditions of metal, yet also right at the cutting edge of modern demands. Let's be honest here: is there another so-called black metal band in the world who would think of mix operatic cleavings with jazz leanings, a pounding drum heart burst plus a cunningly heavy guitar heart beat? Don't bother to answer...it'll become obvious as soon as you hear the opening shards of 'The Eruption', with its ominous incantations and baroque blaze. With 'Prometheus...' Emperor have brought their story to a fitting climax. It is the past, present and future of black metal tethered and lashed to nine emphatic tracks. It is the apogee of a career that has long left behind the superlatives and taken on a life of its own. The past has seen this band suffer certain indignities. But they have overcome all obstacles and problems to remain an essential force in the world of music - forget about limiting their impact to black metal - or even metal per se - in an era when crossover is crucial and encouraged, here is a band who defy classification, and deny the genre gambols of others. With every pumping note and scarring chord, Emperor here leave behind all their rivals. While others find their aspirations reined by a severe mundanity, this Norwegian trio regard the taking of risks as part of the challenge and excitement of being musicians. So what how to define 'Prometheus: The Discipline Of Fire & Demise'? Don't bother with such limitations, get on out there and enjoy the music - because that, ultimately, is what defines this album. In years to come people will talk in hushed tones about this being a landmark metal release, perhaps the finest black metal album of them all. But the reality is that if, as is possible, this is to be Emperor's final album, then they will be going out on the very highest of notes. Few others can say as much. Malcolm Dome (London, England. July 2001)