Varathron: Genesis of Apocryphal Desire (1990)

Continuing on with an in-depth look at Hellenic black metal, and in particular, Varathron, we have the Greek band's second demo. 

This is the release where Varathron truly came into their own.  Their musical and compositional abilities have improved light years from the previous demo and they have truly found their own voice.  Classifying this release as black metal is a bit simplistic as there are numerous thrash metal influences present.  From the "Raining Blood"-like melody in the title track to the undeniable thrash riffs in "Seven Endless Horizons", this release comes across as more of a blackened thrash sound.  There are also guitar solos present on the release, something that was missing on the last one.

The vocals have also improved.  While they still have a bit of the rotted sound present from the previous demo, the tone has improved greatly and they are much more prevalent in the mix.  Which brings me to the production itself.  Where the prior demo was very raw and muddy, this one is much more clear, with all of the instruments standing out.

This is the release where Varathron truly grabbed attention.  They would build on and improve this sound from here, but this is the true introduction to the band.