Artist: Absu Album: Tara

Year: 2001
Duration: 1:09:33

A of the Album Tara by Absu

Absu, a black metal band, is known for producing some of the most innovative and intense music in the genre. They have been active since the late 80s and are still releasing music today. Tara, their fifth studio album released in 2001, has been considered one of the most important albums in the history of black metal. In this post, I will give a of the album, provide a brief history of the band, and highlight the best songs and most innovative parts of the album.
Absu was formed in 1989 in Texas by Proscriptor McGovern under the name Dolmen. They changed their name to Absu in 1991 and quickly gained popularity in the metal underground. They released their debut album, Barathrum: V.I.T.R.I.O.L., in 1993 which was met with critical acclaim. Tara was released in 2001 and marked a significant shift in their sound as they incorporated more traditional Celtic and folk elements into their music.
One of the best songs on Tara is The Coming of War, which opens the album with a bang. It features blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and the signature snarling vocals of Proscriptor. The track is a perfect example of Absu's ability to blend different styles of metal seamlessly. Another standout track is Manannán, which features a beautiful acoustic intro before launching into a riff-laden assault. The song also showcases Proscriptor's impressive drumming skills.
One of the most innovative parts of Tara is its use of traditional folk instruments such as the bodhrán and the tin whistle. A Shield with An Iron Face is a prime example of this, with its use of an Irish whistle solo. The track is also notable for its excellent bass lines, providing a solid foundation for the other instruments to build upon. The album as a whole has a very raw and organic feel which sets it apart from other black metal releases.
Despite its many strengths, Tara is not without its flaws. Some of the tracks can run a bit long, and there is a tendency to rely too heavily on repetitive riffs. The lyrics can also be a bit convoluted at times, making it difficult to understand the message behind the songs. However, these are minor issues that do not detract from the overall quality of the album.
In conclusion, Tara is a must-listen for any fans of black metal or extreme metal in general. It represents a significant milestone in the career of Absu and is arguably one of the best albums in the genre. It is a perfect example of how a band can take elements from different styles of music and blend them together to create something unique and exciting. While it may not be perfect, it is an essential addition to any metalhead's collection.