Cöuntess - Cöuntess

Review by Karin Hagberg

Cöuntess, the self-titled album by the Dutch black metal band, is a relentless assault on the senses. With its aggressive riffs, pounding drums, and raw vocals, the album is a throwback to the early days of black metal, when bands like Venom and Bathory were pushing the boundaries of extreme music.

From the opening track, "The Priest Must Die," it's clear that Cöuntess are not interested in subtlety or nuance. The song blasts out of the speakers with a ferocity that is both exhilarating and terrifying. The guitars are distorted and fuzzy, the drums are thunderous, and the vocals are harsh and guttural.

The album continues in this vein, with songs like "Hell's Rock and Roll" and "The Devil's Apprentice" delivering more of the same relentless energy. There are some quieter moments on the album, such as the acoustic interlude "A Witch's Tale," but these are brief respites from the onslaught of noise.

Summary by Karin Hagberg

While Cöuntess may not be breaking any new ground with this album, they are clearly dedicated to their craft. The production is raw and unpolished, but this only adds to the album's charm. Fans of old-school black metal will find plenty to enjoy here, and even those who are not familiar with the genre may find themselves drawn in by the sheer intensity of the music. Cöuntess is a solid album that will appeal to anyone who likes their music loud, fast, and aggressive.