Akercocke are truly unique. From the dark rawness of their 1998 debut, Rape of the Bastard Nazarene, up to the present day, they have never run with the pack. Though the British have bred more pioneers of heavy metal than any other nation, it cannot be denied that extreme metal-wise, we have been left a little thin on the ground. True, Napalm Death, Bolt Thrower, Bal-Sagoth and Benediction have all left their marks, but you must admit that something is seriously wrong when so many people see the British black metal scene as comprising of Hecate Enthroned and Cradle of Filth.

Akercocke play a blend of vicious guttural death metal and soaring, majestic black metal that is both disturbing and bewitching. When I say that they are unique, it is partly because no other band has utilised the powers of each style in such a breathtaking fashion. Choronzon is monumental in both class and atmosphere. Not a single second of it is wasted or burdened with unnecessary repetition. Though perhaps not as outwardly unsettling as Goat of Mendes, this album gave me an adrenaline rush that almost brought tears to my eyes.

Jason Mendonca's vocals range from the depths of Mortician to a maniacal black metal scream, with sections of clean vocals akin to that of Emperor or Anathema. Lyrically, this album continues the focus on the Satanic faith that Akercocke take very seriously. It's anti-Christian, but not in the manner of Deicide or Immolation, more a mixture of thought-provoking poetry and violence.

"Valley of the Crucified" has a slightly Emperor feel to it to begin with, but before long Akercocke's inimitable style takes over and I am once again left to wonder. The all-out brutality of "Scapegoat" is perfectly placed, as is the trade of dazzling guitar solos contained therein.

It is "Becoming the Adversary" that shines most among all these gems, a raging blast of merciless power that will leave you breathless.

The make-up of Choronzon is an intriguing brew of ravenous extreme metal and mystic passages of clean guitar and keyboards that I would equate to a serpent hypnotising its prey before moving in for the kill. This band have a few dark secrets to share, and I strongly recommend that you all listen up... (10/10)