Absu’s Tara is a perfect metal record. There is no flaw, no wasted space, no out of place filler track. It is only ripping black metal riffing, weird throaty vocals, and the best drum performance on a metal record, period. A theme throughout this record is the use of unorthodox instruments and production techniques. For example, it starts with a bagpipe solo. “A Shield With An Iron Face” has liberal use of a MOOG Taurus- something that doesn’t happen too often outside Rush songs. “From Ancient Times” starts out with a bass cut that makes the song hit 10x harder when everything kicks in.
Another aspect of this record that isn’t talked about too much is the booklet for the CD. It is MASSIVE. There is a glossary of words used in the lyrics explaining the historical context and meaning to the terms used. This record is so overthought in every way. Many bands do themes and incorporate history into their music, but here Absu has really taken it to this insane degree.
If you listen to this record and don’t come away liking something about it, it is safe to say metal just isn’t for you. This is my go-to record for people that have dipped their toe in with Metallica or Slayer, but want something more obscure and extreme. It’ll change your life, or at least the way you pronounce the word “lake".