'Spiritual Black Dimensions' has nine trax of melodic black metal with symphonic overtones. The music has a textured/layered feel to it. The guitar riffs aren't as repetitive as on 'Enthroned Darkness Triumphant', I still prefer 'Enthroned...' to this effort. I have to be honest I hate the way Dimmu Borgir uses their synthesizers in their music, it almost overrides all the other instruments. The best song off the LP for me is 'The Promised Future Aeons'. Track #7 'The Insight & The Catharsis' would have been great accept for the weak-ass synthesizers, ruined the whole vibe of the song. The graphics on the inside of the inlay are extremely brutal-hooks piercing through flesh. One member of Dimmu Borgir (Dim-moo Bore-Gear) has been replaced since this release has been recorded. Tjodaly-left the band for personal reasons, their new drummer is Nick Barker of Cradle of Filth fame. Nagash-bass player, has also left the band, now concentrating all of his efforts on The Kovenant. Simen Hestnaes will be filling in for him on Dimmu Borgir's world tour, a permanent replacement has yet to be announced. Since the release of 'Spiritual Black Dimensions' (March of '99), they have also spawned a split LP with Old Man's Child. If you like your black metal with synthesizers, then this is the band for you.

Official Dimmu Borgir Website: http://www.dimmu-borgir.com/

© 1999 skullcrusher