RITES OF THY DEGRINGOLADE An Ode to Sin LP Gatefold

Hailing from Edmonton, Alberta, Rites of Thy Degringolade is another band from mastermind Paulus Kressman. Rites was formed as a solo project after the split of Sacramentary Abolishment, and one can hear the resemblance between the two especially in the early material of Rites. Here we have the latest, and unfortunately last release from the band (aside from a promised upcoming EP). "An Ode To Sin" manages to create some blistering fast and chaotic black metal.

This is probably the most tame Rites release in terms of chaos, but that doesn't mean it isn't chaotic at all. There is a plethora of crazy riffs and progressions, along with brilliant arrangements. Of course, the drums on this album are rather prominent. Paulus is a fantastic drummer who plays with precision and fury. The drums are produced extremely well as the beats are all very clear.

There seems to be a bit more experimentation with lead guitar on this album, as the third track "Of Purist Impurity" showcases. I am unaware who does the lead on here, but my suspicion J Wroth. Anyway, the leads are interesting as they use a lot of odd melodies and are effective in their places.

Rites decided to rerecord the track "Thyhathbecomehim" from "Totality", and give it a bit of a new spin. There is an interesting intro before the madness starts. It's interested to compare it to the original, as this album's production features some pretty heavy bass, where as the other one was a bit more raw sounding. Nonetheless, it's quite the treat to hear this song on here again.

Easily this is one of my favourite LPs, and I would suggest it to fans of Axis of Advance, Sacramentary Abolishment, or just anyone who likes chaotic black metal. Again, it's a shame to see the band break up but at least we're given one hell of a full length and hopefully an EP on exit. In the name of Rites... get this LP!