After four years of relative silence, The Black has hit back hard with a meaty double album. Whilst both slabs of mysticism explore a different concept they are still very much bound by their signature sound. Thus, the Latin lyrics are thrust forth with a wall of menacing guitars. However, the band has relinquished their progressive tendencies in favour of a bare bones Doom Metal approach in a way that only the Italians know how. The first instalment is a sojourn into the seven deadly sins of Dante Alighieri and each composition corresponds to a respective transgression. The second instalment follows directly after the first and not without justification. The similarities in approach soon become clear. after a lively introduction, which is partially marred by some irritating effects, the album proper takes on a life of its own. The bursts of speed are generally fewer and farther between, with the exception of the racy “Miserere” because as a rule, “Capistrani Pugnator” delves into a blacker enigmatic landscape. The vocals are equally sparse, allowing more space for the music to lead, yet where they do assume prominence they have an almost medieval dimension thanks to choice guest vocal contributions. The unusual illustrations adorning the sleeve, created by the guitarist and vocalist, Mario Di Donato, deserve a special mention because visually, they mirror and complement the concepts contained within the music. The Black is visionary and undoubtedly an acquired taste but one worth sampling if you crave darkness.